A new app dedicated to providing people across Northern Ireland with advice and links to vital trusted information in relation to the Covid-19 outbreak is available.
The app has been launched by the Department of Health Northern Ireland.
The app will be kept up to date as the pandemic evolves.
The app includes guidance on the symptoms of the coronavirus infection and helps people to identify whether they might potentially have the infection.
It will also provide advice on what actions people should take if they think they may have coronavirus.
The information provided will also help people decide if they need advice from a doctor, and how best to access that advice should they need it.
People can ask specific questions through the app with an Advice Search ‘chatbot’ that automatically reviews all the guidance to find a response to match individual queries.
The app should also help with easing pressure on GP surgeries, pharmacies and other community services.
Once downloaded, people who use the app will also receive push notifications, which will include the latest public health advice.
Local companies Civica and Big Motive were also involved in developing the app.
Health Minister Robin Swann has praised the speed of delivery of the resource by Department of Health’s Digital Team.
“I recognise that people in Northern Ireland need access to up to date information at this worrying time and this vital initiative will complement all the other work we are doing across our health and care services.
“The pressure on our services is going to be unprecedented and this is an important resource for those who need local information quickly,” he said.
And he added that this investment has been made knowing that trusted local health guidance is critically important.
“We expect the app will also help us track the impact of Covid-19, which will assist us in planning and directing services and supports to the best of our ability,” he added.
To download the Covid-19 NI app – search for Covid-19 NI on the Apple app store and Covid-19 NI on Google Play.