Study explores whether algorithms can use cough recordings to detect Covid

Researchers think if voice sounds can identify people more likely to need a test, more cases could be found, helping to slow the spread of the virus.

A study will explore whether algorithms can use cough recordings to detect Covid (Yui Mok/PA) (PA Archive)

Adults who have taken a coronavirus test can take part in a study looking at whether algorithms can use voice data, including cough recordings, to detect Covid-19.

Researchers suggest that if voice sounds can be used to identify if someone is more likely to need a test, more cases could be found.

In turn, this could help to slow the spread of the virus.

Anyone over the age of 18 who has had a Covid-19 test (lateral flow or PCR) within the past 72 hours can take part.

The UK is at the forefront of innovative research into Covid-19 to expand our understanding of this disease

UKHSA spokesman

They need to have their own laptop, desktop computer, smartphone or tablet to visit speakuptobeatcovid.uk.

After filling out a form, volunteers are asked to record a short series of sounds using the microphone on their phone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer.

This includes a forced cough, breathing sounds and a defined sentence.

A spokesman for the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said: “The UK is at the forefront of innovative research into Covid-19 to expand our understanding of this disease, and we are hugely grateful to the thousands of volunteers who participate in these trials and studies.

“The UK Health Security Agency is working with the Alan Turing Institute and the Royal Statistical Society on a small-scale trial to assess the feasibility of using vocal algorithms to detect Covid-19.”

Any outcomes of the trial will be published in due course.