Healthcare Technology and News: Using Technology to Battle Pandemics in a Digital World

People concerned about contracting the H1N1 virus, or any other potential illness now have some new tools to help them keep tracking of pandemics and stay healthy.

 

In the age when digital devices rule, consumers and health organizations can now stay up to date on the latest flu-related information with a few taps of a button, thanks to the increasing number of iPhone apps, social networks and informative Web sites dedicated to the cause. Users can now share information and track other health threats instantaneously.

 

For example, the HealthMap Outbreaks Near Me iPhone application displays red pins on a map, which show nearby cases of swine flu. The app also shows how users can report cases they know about.  The app is one of more than 100 swine flu apps for Apple Inc.'s iPhone, according to The Associated Press. Some are free, whereas are fee-based.

 

Beyond consumer apps, the CDC News Reader iPhone app, gives officials from the Center for Disease Control swine flu updates, public health articles and travel notices. What’s more, swineAware offers links to swine flu statistics and briefings from the CDC and the World Health Organization.

 

Swine flu "is the first pandemic to use digital tools," Ann Aikin, a social media strategist at the CDC, told the AP.

 

 

So far, the apps appear to be filling a need. The HealthMap Outbreaks Near Me, for example, has been downloaded more than 100,000 times, the AP said. With it, users can learn of outbreaks nearby and take preventive measures. By sharing that information, users enjoy being first to give and receive those details, the report said.

 

Such applications can help reduce the number of people infected by the virus. The H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu, claimed more than 11,000 lives and required the hospitalization of some 250,000 people, more than the number in a typical flu season, The AP said.

 

Apps aside. Other forms of communications technology, such as telepresence, have helped businesses stay productive and keep employees healthy. With telepresence and video conferencing solutions, companies can instantly communicate between their home offices, conference rooms and desktops, rather than traveling or working in public areas that can promote the spread of germs.  Businesses can remain operational and have flu-free meetings.

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