How to Select Infrared Thermometers for the Prevention and Control of Influenza A
Keiji Fukuda, Acting Assistant Director‑General in charge of health security at the World Health Organization, re‑affirmed on the 11th that the evolution of the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic is unpredictable and all countries must make full preparations for pandemic prevention and control.
Following the confirmation of Chinese mainland's first case of Influenza A (H1N1), prevention‑and‑control measures have once again drawn wide attention. At present, airports and ports across China have further strengthened temperature screening for febrile inbound and outbound travelers by implementing multi‑level quarantine for rigorous epidemic prevention. Testo specialists explain key points for ensuring accurate and effective human‑body infrared temperature measurement at inspection‑and‑quarantine authorities and various ports.
According to national regulations, only infrared thermometers with an accuracy within ±0.4 °C are permitted for body‑temperature screening against Influenza A.
Traditional clinical thermometers require relatively long measuring time and are unsuitable for mass‑population temperature screening. Infrared thermal‑imaging technology, featuring fast and convenient temperature readout, has become the most widely adopted tool for such epidemic prevention. Nevertheless, body‑temperature screening can only be effective when measurement accuracy is guaranteed.
Given the uneven quality of infrared thermometers available on the market, national regulations stipulate that every infrared thermometer used for Influenza‑A‑related temperature screening must be tested by the National Institute of Metrology, China and obtain an accuracy certificate. Only instruments with accuracy within ±0.4 °C are allowed for deployment.
Targeted Operation: Adjust Emissivity before Use for Higher‑accuracy Measurement
All objects reflect, transmit and emit energy. During infrared temperature measurement, infrared energy radiated from the measured target is converted into an electrical signal on the detector via the optical system of the infrared thermometer, and the temperature reading is displayed. Every substance has a distinct emissivity. Some infrared thermometers support adjustable emissivity; emissivity values for various materials can be obtained from emissivity tables. Instruments with fixed, non‑adjustable emissivity deliver comparatively lower measurement accuracy.
