MEMBER of Parliament for Windsor Adam Afriyie has urged everyone to join the fight against coronavirus by downloading the NHS Covid-19 app. He writes;

This week has seen the launch of the NHS’ long awaited Covid-19 app, which will be a useful tool in our continued fight against the virus.

Whilst the app cannot cure the virus, it does contain several features that will help to slow the spread as we head into the long cold nights of winter.

Firstly, the app will alert users if they have been close to someone who later tests positive for coronavirus.

It will help people evaluate the level of risk they could pose when visiting friends, families, loved ones and especially those who may be vulnerable.

A great feature of the app is that it will provide risk alerts based on your postcode and allow the use of a QR code at a venue, so that a test can be booked if needed.

The app works by logging the amount of time you spend near other app users, and the distance between you, so you receive an alert if you’ve been close to somebody with Covid-19 even if you don’t know them.

The app can then advise you to self-isolate if necessary.

It’s your choice whether or not you download the app, but should you choose to do so you’ll be pleased to hear that all the UK’s major phone operators have confirmed that in-app activity will not come out of your data allowance.

If like me, you are concerned about security, then it is reassuring to know that the app has been designed securely to pose little or no risk to our personal data.

Neither Apple and Google, who developed the technology, nor the Government will have any access to the data.

We are now at a tipping point in our efforts to control the spread of this virus, and with infections rates beginning to rise once again, the Government is doing all it can to make it easier for people to engage and do what they can to protect themselves and their loved ones and to help keep the economy going.

It seems to me that if you’re looking to protect yourself and your family then it might be a good idea to download the NHS Covid-19 app.

For more information on the app go online to NHS England’s website on nhs.uk/apps-library/nhs-covid-19