American scientists are investigating whether changes in voice and the way you speak can be an indication of infection with COVID-19.
They believe that slight changes in sounds can be a clear sign of whether the body is fighting infection.
The test does not specify whether a person is infected with the Coronavirus. However, it can reveal whether a laboratory test for infection should be performed, and whether a person is at risk of developing severe complications.
These small changes in sound, when fighting an infection, include speaking more slowly than usual, taking small breaths between words, and even a difference in pitch.
Dr. Anil Singh, director of the Allegheny Health Network system said: “We hope that vocal analysis will provide valuable information that can help clinicians quickly identify the upcoming danger and quickly get the treatment patients need, which could prevent the severe disease.”
He added, "Patients who are not likely to have an exacerbation of their disease can also be allowed to stay at home, which reduces the risk of exposure to others."
Scientists are currently working on assessing whether their acoustic test could be an effective early test for COVID-19.
If the results are promising, they will take the test to the next level, which is clinical trials.