Baltimore-based Opteev announced it has developed ViraWarn, which it says is the first-ever plug-in screening device that can detect airborne COVID-19 particles in real time in indoor spaces. ViraWarn supports the safe return to in-person work, learning and other pursuits by actively screening air similar to the way a smoke detector works, and alerting decision-makers so that common areas can be evacuated and disinfected.
ViraWarn modules include air suction that complements a room’s existing airflow to move air through the ViraWarn detection chamber and analyzes the air to detect if a coronavirus is present. If a viral alert is triggered, a visual indication via an LED light and an audible alert immediately signal so that the room can be evacuated and disinfected in addition to having the occupants screened. A mobile app is also available for mobile notification alerts.
“The science behind ViraWarn and our patent-pending technology is what makes it possible for us to proactively detect coronaviruses in real-time and alert decision makers so that they can evacuate and disinfect common indoor areas like classrooms and waiting rooms. … Before this technology was developed, we had to wait days to get test results back and by that time, it’s too late,” said Biplab Pal, Ph.D., co-founder and chief technology officer at Opteev.
Opteev is a joint development of Novatec Inc. and MachineSense LLC.
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