American medical company Advanced Medical Solutions International (AMSI) has developed a scanner device that detects SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, on surfaces and in people.

The non-contact portable viral detector, called the “COVID Hunter,” instantly detects the presence of the virus when aimed within 6 feet of either a person or an object.

Source: AMSIThe scanner emits a beam that gathers data for analysis to determine if a spike protein — which is a protein that enables viruses like SARS-CoV-2 to penetrate host cells and cause infection — is present. If the spike protein is detected, the scanner will sound an alarm.

According to its developers, the scanner can locate the virus inside humans and on surfaces with a 99% rate of accuracy.

Additionally, AMSI explained that the scanner can be modified to detect different coronavirus variants and strains.

Once manufactured, the scanner is expected to first be available to healthcare workers on the frontlines treating COVID-19 patients.

For more information on the COVID Hunter, watch the accompanying video that appears courtesy of AMSI.