How digital health devices can predict virus outbreaks: Scripps Research COVID-19 updates

The Scripps Research Translational Institute has launched an app-based research program that will analyze participants’ wearable health data—including heart rates, sleep and activity levels—to more quickly detect the emergence of influenza, coronavirus and other fast-spreading viral illnesses.

Members of the public who are 18 or older and use a smartwatch or activity tracker, such as a Fitbit, Apple Watch, Amazfit or Garmin Watch, can join the study and consent to share their data by downloading the MyDataHelps mobile app. By harnessing key data points from these users’ wearable devices, scientists believe they can improve real-time surveillance of contagious respiratory illnesses. Early detection is critical for effective public health response to infectious disease outbreaks and for improving treatments.

Learn more about the study at www.detectstudy.org
Learn more about how Scripps Research is tackling coronavirus at www.scripps.edu/covid-19