Apple on Friday announced the release of a new COVID-19 coronavirus website and iPhone app. The new website and app offer a screening tool and other resources to allow individuals to stay informed and to protect their health during the coronavirus pandemic.
Apple partnered with the CDC, the White House Coronavirus Task Force, and FEMA on the website and app.
The COVID-19 app and website allow users to answer a series of questions around risk factors, recent exposure and symptoms for themselves or a loved one. In turn, they will receive CDC recommendations on next steps, including guidance on social distancing and self-isolating, how to closely monitor symptoms, whether or not a test is recommended at this time, and when to contact a medical provider. This new screening tool is designed to be a resource for individuals and does not replace instructions from healthcare providers or guidance from state and local health authorities.
The app and website also offer access to coronavirus-related resources to allow folks to stay informed about the outbreak and get assistance if needed. Users will receive answers to frequently asked questions about COVID-19, including who is most at risk and how to recognize symptoms. In addition, they will learn the most up-to-date information from the CDC like best practices for washing hands, disinfecting surfaces and monitoring symptoms.
In addition to the new app and website, Apple device users across the US may also ask Siri, “How do I know if I have coronavirus?” to access guidance and resources from the CDC and a curated collection of telehealth apps available on the App Store.
This week, travelers landing at select international airports throughout the US started receiving notifications on their iPhone to remind them of current CDC guidance to stay home and monitor their health.
The screening tool can be used by anyone who is 18 years or older in the United States. Apple assures users that the COVID-19 app and website were built to keep all user data private and secure. The tools do not require a sign-in or association with a user’s Apple ID, and users’ individual responses will not be sent to Apple or any government organization.
