The Opu Labs COVID-19 and Viral Skin Check tool can report the likelihood of a COVID-19 or virally induced skin condition before the onset of the most common symptoms associated with COVID-19 or other viral infection. This page contains information to help you understand the risks and benefits of using this tool for assessing the likelihood of a skin condition induced by COVID-19. After reading this information, if you have questions or would like to discuss the information provided further, please talk to your healthcare provider.

What is the COVID-19?

COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus can cause mild to severe respiratory illness and has spread globally, including in the United States. The current information available to characterize the spectrum of clinical illness associated with COVID-19 suggests that symptoms include cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever, chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat or new loss of taste or smell. A full list of symptoms of COVID-19 can be found HERE

For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, please visit the CDC Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) webpage

What is the COVID-19 and Viral Skin Check tool?

The tool is designed to provide an assessment of the likelihood that a portion of a skin image matches with a COVID-19 induced skin condition. Users with low scores are encouraged to monitor their condition and/or consult with their dermatologist or general healthcare provider. Users with high scores are encouraged to consult immediately with a doctor and/or go to a test center for further testing.

Why was this tool used to analyze my skin?

Skin rashes and other skin conditions may be caused by various infectious diseases, including viral infections such as COVID-19. Absent other symptoms, your skin condition could be an early indication of COVID-19 infection if you have a rash that matches the expected characteristics in terms of shape, location, distribution, etc.

What are the known, and potential, risks and benefits of the tool?

Potential risk includes:

Possible incorrect result. In this case, you may unnecessarily contact your healthcare provider and/or go to a clinic for a test which may be in short supply, or you may falsely conclude you do not have the virus and delay taking actions that could slow the spread of infection.

Potential benefits include:

The tool expands early identification capabilities for COVID-19 and other viruses, where skin conditions are the first or only symptoms.

The results, along with other information, can help your healthcare provider make informed recommendations about your care.

The results from the tool may help limit the spread of COVID-19 to your family and others in your community.