A sensor embedded in a mask was able to detect the Covid-19, H5N1 and H1N1 flu viruses in the air within 10 minutes and send alerts to a device, according to the study led by six scientists working with Tongji University in Shanghai. The peer-reviewed findings were published in the scientific journal Matter on Monday. While the pandemic has prompted widespread mask use and a proliferation of designs — including a version with a microphone developed by Razer Inc. – the easing of Covid-related mandates in most major economies led to a drop in usage. However, mask use remains widespread in countries including China, which maintains a strict Covid Zero policy, while many people around the world continue to wear them to protect themselves and others from the virus, regardless of their government rules. An Axios-Ipsos survey in early September found that 37% of Americans wear a mask outside the home at least sometimes, up from 89% two years ago. Deadly China Bus Crash In Quarantine Sparks Zero-Covid Rage The new device, which sits outside the mask with a rechargeable lithium battery, was tested by spraying pathogens into it indoors, simulating a possible scenario where someone is talking or coughing. The sensors responded to fluid about 70 to 560 times less than the amount produced in a sneeze, sending alerts to wireless devices such as a phone. The researchers said the device is best used indoors where the risk of infection is high, and they are working to reduce detection times and the sensitivity of the device, which can be configured for different viruses if necessary. No cost estimates have been released for the part. ©2022 Bloomberg LP
