Fever screening and infrared thermal imaging: Concerns and guidelines

The aim of the document is inform those either using or considering using infrared thermal imaging mass screening systems for fever detection of recent developments surrounding this concept. The recent publicity surrounding the Swine influenza outbreak ( H1N1 strain of influenza type A) has spurred interest in the use of this technology. However, the publicity has also sparked a debate concerning the effectiveness of using infrared thermal imaging for this purpose. It is important to note that this document is not intended to answer the question as to the reliability of infrared thermal imaging for fever screening. Clearly opinions will vary depending on the interests and experience of the reader. Nevertheless, the European Association of Thermology (EAT) feel that there are some basic facts that need to be taken into account when either using and/or designing specialized infrared thermal imaging installations for mass screening of human subjects.