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Apple just launched an app and a website that can help if you’re experiencing symptoms and wondering whether you might have COVID-19 (also known as Coronavirus). This free app and website screening tool was developed by Apple based on guidance from the US CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) to help people learn whether they might have the virus and find out more about what to do to keep themselves and others safe.
If you’re feeling ill, you may be able use Apple’s screening tool to avoid a visit to your doctor, calling and waiting on hold to speak to someone, or worrying that you may have contracted the virus. This simple screening process can help guide you in learning whether you might have COVID-19 and what to do next.
The app and website also offer helpful resources to help you learn more about the virus, get tips on social distancing, and learn more about testing. They also may give you comfort as you fret about symptoms that may be due to seasonal allergies, the common cold, or another ailment unrelated to COVID-19.
How to Use Apple’s COVID-19 App and Website
To use the screening tool, head to apple.com/covid19, and/or download the Apple COVID-19 app for your iPhone or iPad. Tap or click the Start Screening button. (The app and website utilize the same screening tools, so it doesn’t matter which one you use.)
Important => The app and website warn that if you’re experiencing these symptoms, you should stop the screening process immediately and dial 911 emergency services:
- Constant chest pain or pressure
- Extreme difficulty breathing,
- Severe, constant dizziness or lightheadedness
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty waking up
=> Also see Google Launches New Coronavirus/COVID-19 Resources
Begin the screening by letting the app know whether you’re screening for yourself or someone else.
You’ll be asked a series of questions about:
- age range
- symptoms
- medical conditions
- whether you’ve traveled internationally
- whether you’ve been in or live in an area where the virus is widespread
- whether you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus.
- whether you live in a long-term care facility
- whether you work in a hospital or other care facility
Based on your responses, the app/website will offer suggestions about the next steps you should take. That may include contacting a medical professional for further guidance, social distancing, and isolating yourself from others.
=> Check out 12 Ways Tech Can Help with Social Distancing
What Else You Need to Know
Both the app and website are free to use. You don’t need to register in order to use either the website or the app.
According to Apple, “Apple is not collecting your answers from the screening tool. To help improve the app, Apple collects some information about how you use it. The information collected will not personally identify you.”
Siri COVID-19 Help
Apple has also introduced a Siri skill to help you recognize the symptoms of COVID-19. As with Apple’s COVID-19 app and website, the responses are based on guidance from the US CDC and Public Health Service.
Ask Siri, “Do I have Coronavirus?” or “How do I know if I have COVID-19?” Siri will ask you questions about your symptoms, then perhaps advise you to contact a health professional for further guidance or self-isolate based on your responses.
If you don’t have a health professional, Siri can guide you to apps that offer telehealth services.
Your Thoughts
Do you like the idea of Apple’s app and website that can help you recognize the symptoms of COVID-19? Do you like the convenience of asking Siri how to know whether you may have COVID-19? Would you use these tools to help you screen yourself or others for symptoms of COVID-19?
Share your thoughts in the Comments section below!
I like that they made this app usable without having to register.
Hi Suchot, Yes, by not requiring registration, Apple has eliminated a hurdle that may have made people more reluctant to use it. They also seem to be respecting people’s privacy by allowing people to use the app and website without registering first.
It is a good tool to check primarily. The current situation is really horrible and all the companies should come out to help mankind.
Hi Alex, You’re right, this is a horrible situation and help from companies can make a difference. I hope this app and website are able to help many people.
Great work by apple. Thanks for telling us..
Hello John, Yes, this app and website can be very helpful for those who fear they might have the virus but aren’t sure what to do about it. I hope you are able to stay safe during this pandemic, John.
Thanks to Apple for this beautiful service.
May everyone get well soon from Covid-19.
Hi Elita, Yes, I hope that the spread of this virus begins to slow soon and that this app helps peop\le know what to do in case they suspect they have contracted the virus.