Sniffer dogs have long played a vital role at airports around the world, helping authorities detect illegal substances and contraband. But now, thanks to innovative research and training, these incredible animals are taking on a new and urgent challenge — detecting COVID-19.
We’re proud to support this groundbreaking project of the the Finnish Smell Detection Association Wise Nose, which is currently being trialed at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport in Finland. In this initiative, specially trained dogs are being used to identify coronavirus infections in passengers — even before symptoms appear.
The trial, led by Professor Anna Hielm-Björkman from the University of Helsinki, is showing highly promising results. According to Prof. Hielm-Björkman, the dogs are “very good at detecting coronavirus” and are achieving “close to 100% sensitivity.”
As part of the testing process, passengers wipe their necks with a cloth, which is then placed in a canister and presented to the dogs for sniffing. The results can be delivered within minutes — providing a fast, non-invasive screening method. However, to ensure accuracy, passengers in the trial also complete a swab test to confirm the result.
The program currently includes 15 dogs and 10 instructors, all working hard to fine-tune this innovative method. While more research is needed to validate the long-term efficiency of canine detection, the early results are extremely encouraging.
Vantaa Deputy Mayor Timo Aronkyto has even suggested that, in the future, these dogs could move freely among passengers just like traditional customs dogs — a potential game-changer for public health screening in travel environments.
We are honored to be contributing to a project that not only showcases the intelligence and sensitivity of dogs but also offers hope for faster, more accessible COVID-19 screening methods. It’s yet another example of how science, innovation, and compassion can come together to create real-world impact.
Read more about the COVID-19 sniffer dogs and their work at Helsinki Airport: