
WHAT IS THE TECHNOLOGY?
This project expanded upon our previous study on home-testing for influenza using the flu@home nasal swab test. The aim of this study is to develop a methodology to better classify and detect people with respiratory tract infections, including influenza, through the use of signals from wearable devices (including changes in vital signs and behaviors, even before overt symptoms have appeared). This study also aims to assess the accuracy of the flu@home rapid diagnostic self-test and in-app automated test strip result interpretation for identifying influenza infection.

WHAT IS THE TECHNOLOGY’S POTENTIAL IMPACT ON PRIMARY CARE?
Wearable activity trackers are increasingly used to monitor individual health. Leveraging this data could lead to earlier diagnosis of various health conditions including respiratory infections, and could improve real-time influenza surveillance. Wearable data could also be used to determine the optimal time for an individual to conduct a home-based influenza test, as the time window for an accurate diagnosis is limited. This type of technology could also have implications for other infections, including COVID-19.

WHAT IS PCI-LAB DOING?
PCI-Lab is part of the study team, in partnership with the Lutz lab at UW Bioengineering, Evidation Health and Audere. PCI-Lab has contributed to study design and data analysis.