April 29, 2020 / Max Sullivan
A new initiative launched last week in New York’s Capital District will get thermometers to organizations such as homeless shelters and food pantries to better track COVID-19.
Alliance for Better Health wants to distribute approximately 7,500 smart thermometers to community-based organizations in Albany and the surrounding areas. 
Approximately 35 organizations are benefitting from the program, including regional hospitals.
The thermometers, produced by Kinsa Health, are internet-connected and include a patient-facing mobile app that prompts users to enter symptoms they may be experiencing. The app also provides basic advice on whether the patient should seek medical attention.
Food Pantries for the Capital District, which provides groceries to those in need, said it was planning to deliver the thermometers it received to local pantries.