Abstract:
The application of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology in the field of health and epidemic prevention is becoming increasingly widespread. With its unique advantages in disease monitoring, the transportation of medicines and vaccines, and public health emergencies, it is revolutionizing traditional epidemic prevention methods. In disease monitoring, UAVs can quickly obtain images and data from epidemic areas through autonomous flight and panoramic video collection, improving the accuracy and efficiency of disease monitoring. In the field of medicine and vaccine transportation, UAVs have achieved contactless, safe, and efficient emergency material delivery, especially in areas with weak transportation infrastructure or in emergency situations, where UAV transportation demonstrates unparalleled speed and convenience. Additionally, UAVs have played a significant role in public health emergencies, being able to respond ly and provide real-time data support. However, the incomplete legal framework and ethical issues, such as privacy and security, remain obstacles to the widespread application of UAVs. At present, various UAV technology solutions have their own characteristics in terms of innovation and applicability, and a systematic comparison of costs and effects is needed to optimize application plans. In the future, UAV health and epidemic prevention technology will develop towards intelligence and networking, and multi-faceted cooperation and technology integration will become an inevitable trend. This article reviews the current situation, challenges, and future development trends of UAVs in health and epidemic prevention, and proposes suggestions such as improving the legal framework, strengthening technological research and development, and promoting the balance between technology and social benefits to support the development of public health.