Temperature screening – Do not rely on temperature screening

PHE rapid review of temperature as a screening method 

Only two studies have examined the potential role of temperature screening for SARS-CoV-2, although when combined with indirect evidence from other outbreaks evidence suggests it is not an effective intervention. Evidence has largely been generated from studies of screening programmes at country entry and exit points, and its applicability to other settings warrants further consideration.

Our supplementary rapid evidence review did not identify any new evidence since publication of the ECRI review. However, given the pace of new evidence generation on COVID-19 it was important to check for new evidence to ensure up to date knowledge and this will need to be continued at regular intervals. 

There is also advice from MHRA on the following website https://www.gov.uk/government/news/dont-rely-on-temperature-screening-products-for-detection-of-coronavirus-covid-19-says-mhra