05.05.20
Council staff first to gain access to test, track and trace plan
Council staff on the Isle of Wight will be the first to access a new coronavirus action plan to help minimise the spread of the virus and return to normality.
The Government’s ‘test, track and trace’ plan was launched on the Isle of Wight yesterday (May 4), allowing residents to help the Government move towards lifting lockdown restrictions.
Council staff will be given access to the NHS Covid-19 contact tracing app from 4pm today (May 5), with the rest of residents given access from Thursday (May 7).
The app will work with enhanced contact tracing services and swab testing available for those showing signs of the virus as part of the new programme.
NHSX has developed the app alongside a team of world-leading scientists and doctors, with involvement from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) to ensure data protection is a priority. It will provide rapid identification of those most at risk, allowing them to protect themselves and their loved ones.
When symptoms are recorded on the app, the technology can then identify individuals who have had significant contact with this person in the past few days, including contact such as being seated next to someone on public transport.
Anonymous alerts will be issued to those at-risk providing advice and how to get a test, which will become available to order through the app.
Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said:
“The Isle of Wight is playing a vital role with this pioneering work to help keep Britain safe. This will pave the way for a nationwide roll-out when the time is right.
“Coronavirus is one of the greatest challenges our country has ever faced and this app will play a vital role in getting Britain back on her feet.
“The app will help control the spread of coronavirus by alerting people they may have come into contact with it and recommending appropriate action.
“This ground-breaking technology, combined with our heroic frontline health and social care staff, and both a nationwide contact tracing testing programme will ensure that we remain in the best position to move toward easing the lockdown.”
It is expected that this programme will be rolled out nationally by mid-May, with Public Health England overseeing the deployment of 18,000 additional contact tracers to support the programme.