Should you invest in a new wellness tracker?

Track your lifestyle to manage your medical risk.

A recent article about wellness trackers identifying the early signs of Covid19 infection caught my attention. The risk of contracting Covid19 is decreasing as more people get vaccinated. However, public health experts anticipate that the coronavirus will continue to be a health risk that we live with as a society.

“I think we will almost certainly require a booster sometime within a year or so, after getting the primary [shot], because the durability of protection against coronaviruses is generally not lifelong.” – Anthony Fauci MD

Ongoing risk will depend on your post Covid19 lifestyle and medical risk. Getting real time alerts of changes in your health is a real benefit. Three wellness trackers have gotten good reviews for Covid19 detection to date.

Three wellness trackers to consider

1/ Oura Ring

The Oura Ring is best known for tracking sleep. In addition to sleep changes, it can also help detect changes in body temperature, heart rate and respiratory rate that are typical of illness including Covid19.

The ring is a good choice if sleep is your main health concern. It’s designed to be worn 24 hours per day including when you sleep, shower and swim. However, if wearing a ring poses a safety risk to you while on the job, there are other good options.

2/ Ava

The Ava tracker is best known for tracking fertility related metrics in women but it can also help detected changes typical of illness including Covid19. It reportedly tracks heart rate and five other health metrics.

It’s a great choice for women wanting to conceive because the company offers money back guarantee options. With that said, the device needs to be charged daily which could be challenging if you plan to wear it day and night. Also note that the device is not waterproof.

3/ Apple and Fitbit Watch

Both Apple and Fitbit make watches that have been primarily marketed for activity tracking but models with heart rate tracking can also help detect Covid19. Watches offer more utility beyond fitness and wellness which makes them a nice choice especially if you struggle to find of your phone or like to turn up the music while driving.

Plus watches seamlessly sync with your Health App. Health Apps gives physicians everything they need to know about you in the event of an emergency. That’s a big plus especially if you travel, participate in adventurous activities and/or don’t have an existing relationship with your medical community.

Selecting a wellness tracker

Selecting a device is a personal choice because it has to fit your lifestyle and meet your wellness needs. Consider what you’re already tracking through the Health App on your phone and what other wellness concerns are top of mind to help narrow your choice. Keep in mind that the utility of the devices will continue to evolve over time. However, if there are gaps in the information you need to manage your health, add another one to address a specific need.