Stanford, Fitbit join forces to predict viral infections with wearables

As the world searches for a way to bring society back online after coronavirus social isolation, researchers are springing into action to find novel ways to detect diseases early. One method involves strapping on a common, everyday wearable.

Stanford Medicine announced Tuesday that its researchers are working on an algorithmic model for detecting if a person is sick using data collected from wearables. It has partnered with Fitbit and other tech and academic partners on the effort, and is now looking for participants to help refine the diagnostic tool. 

As a partner, Fitbit (which is owned by Google) will be informing users of the ability to participate in the research. It is also giving the researchers 1,000 smartwatches.  Read more...