As we head further into the unknown of COVID-19, it’s important to stay well-informed and ready for what may lie ahead. One key aspect is identifying the tell tale symptoms. The first symptoms typically appear two to 14 days after a person has been exposed to the COVID-19 virus, and may include a dry cough, shortness of breath and fever. While observation alone can confirm the presence of a cough and shortness of breath, a fever requires technical measurement. For that reason, the best idea is to have a thermometer at hand.
While many stores are already sold out of these all-important diagnostic aids, we’ve found five options still available on Amazon. The options include contact-free, app-accompanied and lightweight and portable thermometers.
Please remember that if you do show signs or suspect you are infected with the virus, it’s important to call your doctor and follow the guidelines administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That means once you have a cough and fever, you should begin to self isolate.
1. Rellyuar Digital Thermometer
If you’re looking for a simple and straightforward digital thermometer, give the Rellyuar Digital Thermometer a try. The lightweight and compact design makes it great for use at home or on the go. You’ll find the easy-to-read, LCD screen delivers temperature readings to one decimal place after one minute. It works by using a completely mercury-free process. Plus, there’s a handy beep noise to let you know when the reading is complete. Additionally, the battery-powered device is suitable for everyone from babies to adults and features a flexible tip for a more convenient and comfortable experience.
Pros: The simple and compact design makes this a great option for home and on-the-go use.
Cons: The one-minute readout time is slower than many other thermometers available.
2. Zebery Multi-Function Digital Thermometer
For an advanced approach which doesn’t require any contact with the skin or body, consider the Zebery Multi-Function Digital Thermometer. The non-contact function of this device makes it safer and healthier than competing models and means you don’t have to disturb your patient every time you want to take a reading. It sports a handy, LCD screen which includes a color-indicator, with green for normal, yellow for a slight fever and red for high fevers. The gun-style thermometer is also ultra-fast and delivers the reading in one second or less. Furthermore, this kit includes five face masks for added protection and to help prevent any spread of illness.
Pros: The non-contact nature of the device makes it safer and healthier than other contact models.
Cons: As it is more advanced, this thermometer does require more power than average in the form of two AAA batteries.
3. Mcaron Medical Forehead and Ear Thermometer
The Mcaron versatile dual thermometer is ideal for taking adults and children’s temperatures as it offers versatile modes. This device reads temperatures within one second and beeps loudly when done. The digital screen makes it easy and intuitive to read the temperature logged and if a fever is detected it turns red. The device requires 2 AAA batteries which are included with the purchase.
Pros: You are able to save up to 35 readings in the device so you can track body temperature changes. Incredibly accurate readings.
Cons: Pricey. May need to read instructions to understand how to use all the features its packed with.