The Health Canada COVID Alert app is now active in Manitoba.
The app provides exposure alerts if you should come into contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19.
The app uses bluetooth technology to detect other app users you come in contact with but it never shares any identifying information.
If someone tests positive they will be given a one-time key from public health that they can enter into the app if they choose to. By entering the key into the app any app users who were within two metres of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for at least 15 minutes over a 24-hour period within the past 14 days will be notified of the exposure.
The recipient of the notification can then assess their risk and seek testing if needed.
“With case numbers currently on the rise, the COVID Alert app is one more tool that people can use to be aware of possible exposure to COVID-19,” said Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen. “The introduction of the app builds on our public health contact tracing efforts to inform people of possible exposures and ensure they are given the advice they need to reduce the spread of the virus.”
The COVID Alert app does not collect personal information or health data, and does not know or track the location, name, address or contacts of any user. All aspects of the app are completely voluntary.
You can download the app in the Apple and Google Play app stores.
© News4.ca 2020
