As researchers work around the clock to develop a vaccine for Covid-19, the novel coronavirus that’s sickened over 15 million people globally, we’ve seen human, scientific and technological resources mobilize like never before.
Faced with widespread economic losses and mounting public pressure, scientists are banding together in the global fight against Covid-19, doing everything possible to bring about a quicker end to the pandemic.
From smart-tech wearable innovations that monitor symptoms, to the “human challenge trial” volunteers making sacrifices to save others from the virus, the coronavirus has us pulling out all the stops.
Experimenting with technology —and on ourselves —to stay ahead of the Covid-19 curve.
Welcome to the Abstract podcast from Inverse. I’m Tanya Bustos, your host.
Our first story is about Covid-19 tracking ”smart rings” that can monitor users’ heart rate, body temperature, and breathing patterns. With the NBA's restart offering players the option to use these wearable sensors, researchers hope this unique testing ground can provide Big Tech with new opportunities to shift gears and help fight the coronavirus.
Our second story is about a growing group of volunteers willing to take science into their own hands and deliberately get infected with the novel coronavirus. Would-be volunteers hope these “human challenge trials” can speed up the vaccine development process, and offer a new sense of purpose amid uncertain times.
Read more at Inverse.com:
Find links to all the stories discussed in today’s episode at inverse.com/the-abstract
SMART RING SCIENCE:https://www.inverse.com/mind-body/nba-smart-ring-covid-19
HUMAN CHALLENGE TRAILS:https://www.inverse.com/mind-body/the-people-volunteering-to-get-coronavirus
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