Milton Keynes Council is encouraging local people to download the new NHS COVID-19 app.
The new app is part of the NHS Test and Trace service and will be used, alongside traditional contact tracing, to notify users if they come into contact with someone who later tests positive for coronavirus.
The app allows people to report symptoms, order a coronavirus test, and check in to venues by scanning a QR code.
It also helps the NHS trace app users who have spent time near other app users, who they may not personally know, and who later test positive for coronavirus. It does this by tracking the virus, not individuals. When you first download the app, it asks for your postcode district (in common to thousands of people) which helps the app work out where the virus is spreading. It cannot be used to identify you, track you or to check if you are self-isolating.
If you have been advised by the app to self-isolate, the app provides a countdown timer so that you can keep track of how long you need to self-isolate.
Milton Keynes Council has been working with local businesses to ensure venues who need to download and display QR posters have done so. Visitors need to scan QR codes to check in at venues including pubs, cinemas and hairdressers.
Council posters showing where to download the app will also appear across Milton Keynes.
Council Leader Pete Marland said: “Every person who downloads the app will be helping in the fight against the COVID-19. It should help us know more quickly if we are at risk so we can take necessary action.
“If you are asked to isolate by NHS Test and Trace, you must do so. New legislation now means you might receive a fine by breaking this law.”
