Assessing the Roles of Internet of Things in Combating the Global Spread of COVID-19 Virus: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Internet of things (IoT), as the name sounds, refers to a network of physical objects called ‘things’, that are implanted with sensors, software and other technologies to connect and exchange data with other devices and other systems over the Internet. Connecting these objects and then adding sensors to them contribute some digital intelligence to the devices which eventually enables them to communicate real-time data without the need for physical human involvement. This revolution improves modern healthcare systems. The purpose of this study was to examine the healthcare roles of internet of things (IoT) in combating the global spread of COVID-19 virus. Literature Search of Google Scholar databases, PubMed, SCOPUS and ResearchGate using the keywords “Internet of things” or “IoT” and “COVID-19” was made. Further inputs were taken from blogs and relevant reports. Adoption of IoT technology was found to be rapid and is expected to impact on reducing healthcare-associated costs and improvement of treatment outcomes of COVID-19 infected patients or any other. This is achieved through early patient diagnosis, remote patient monitoring, and cold-chain supply monitoring, among others. Conclusively, from a grey look, IoT proves to be cost-effective, efficient and provides timely and significant care to critical patients in case of pandemics.