New Caledonia unveils thermal camera to detect flu
Updated Wed May 6, 2009 11:15am AEST
With nearly 1,500 swine flu cases now confirmed around the world, Pacific island countries are stepping up their efforts to keep the virus at bay. So far New Zealand is the only country in the region to have been affected, but two suspected cases in Fiji last week has highlighted the need for everyone to be vigilant.
New Caledonia has followed the example of a number of Asian countries, becoming the first of the Pacific islands to install state-of-the-art thermal imaging cameras at its international airport.
The technology detects unusually high fever in passengers. Although it can only be used once the virus is fully developed, experts say it is something other countries should consider using.
Updated Wed May 6, 2009 11:15am AEST
With nearly 1,500 swine flu cases now confirmed around the world, Pacific island countries are stepping up their efforts to keep the virus at bay. So far New Zealand is the only country in the region to have been affected, but two suspected cases in Fiji last week has highlighted the need for everyone to be vigilant.
New Caledonia has followed the example of a number of Asian countries, becoming the first of the Pacific islands to install state-of-the-art thermal imaging cameras at its international airport.
The technology detects unusually high fever in passengers. Although it can only be used once the virus is fully developed, experts say it is something other countries should consider using.