Study says simple test of a person’s ability to smell could stop Covid-19 outbreaks

Allegheny County — As the nation waits for a Covid-19 vaccine and continues to social distance and wear masks, some are looking for more enterprising ways to stop the spread of the virus.

“As a medical community of scientists and clinicians we do have to think outside the box as to how to get this under control,” said UPMC ear, nose and throat Dr. Eric Wang.

A recent study from the University of Colorado Boulder recommends an inexpensive test of a person’s ability to smell as a tool to help stop the spread of Covid-19.

“That’s what I think this article is trying to do, is to try to find a way to look at screening in a simpler way that isn’t so technology dependent,” Wang said.

Part of the test includes a scratch and sniff card combined with a free app, which provides instructions on taking the test and getting the results.

The test would need to be for three straight days. Any irregularity in the ability to smell between tests could indicate a person is positive for the virus, and a Covid-19 test would be the next step.

Wang said the study could be helpful but it does have some challenges, such as differences in sensitivity levels to smell for different people.

The findings of the study have not yet been peer reviewed, but Wang says the discussion is still a valuable one to many people.

“Like if they have noticed their kids are not eating their breakfast and ask them are your tastes down? Then maybe that child shouldn’t go to school that day,” Wang said.

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