Medical Imaging's Role in the COVID-19 Pandemic

In early 2020, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and its subsequent lockdown affected nearly the entire world. Imaging tests were found to be crucial for the diagnosis and evaluation of this new disease. Therefore, radiologic technologists began work on the frontlines, acquiring diagnostic images that helped determine the course of treatment for millions of patients. New infection control procedures were implemented, and technologists across the country provided high- quality care to patients with COVID-19 while learning ways to protect themselves from the virus in the process. This article discusses the basics of the disease, best infection control practices, and imaging findings associated with COVID-19.