Call to use tracker app

PUBLIC Health Wales is encouraging everyone to download the Covid-19 Symptom Tracker app, which has been supported by Welsh Government.

The app allows users to log daily symptoms to help build a clearer picture of how coronavirus is affecting people.

Once downloaded, you are encouraged to report your health daily, whether you are experiencing symptoms or not.

Known as Covid Symptom Tracker, the app allows you to help others, but does not offer health advice.

It has been designed by doctors and scientists at King’s College London, and St Thomas’ Hospitals and Zoe Global Limited, a health technology company.

Scientists from Kings College London and the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (Sail) Databank at Swansea University are working with the Welsh Government to analyse the data to inform modelling and understand and predict the developing situation of the disease in Wales.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “Having a range of evidence and data is crucial in helping us build a clear picture of how the virus is behaving and affecting everyone’s lives.

“Crucially, this app can help us anticipate potential Covid-19 hot spots and get our NHS services ready.

“I’m asking everyone in Wales to download the new Covid Symptom Tracker app, so you can help protect our workers and save lives. Together we can build the best scientific picture so we are better armed to fight this terrible disease.”

Lead researcher Professor Tim Spector from King’s College London, said: “Accurate real-time data is essential if we are to beat this disease.”