MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin health officials plan to use a voluntary smartphone app starting next week to help with COVID-19 contact tracing throughout the state.
The WI Exposure Notification app uses Bluetooth technology to alert users if they’ve come in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. Gov. Tony Evers said the app does not use or collect device location, so users will be anonymous.
“We’re excited about this app’s potential to enhance our state’s response to COVID-19,” Evers. said. “The voluntary WI Exposure Notification app is another tool in our toolbox to stop the spread. Because it lets you know faster if you’ve been in close contact with someone who’s tested positive, you can take steps to keep yourself safe and protect those around you.”
Whenever someone tests positive for COVID-19, they’ll be sent a code that they can enter into the app. The code is then used to anonymously send an alert to users who have shared a Bluetooth signal with the person who tested positive. Bluetooth must be enabled for the app to work properly. The app must also be installed or enabled prior to a positive test for it to work.
“The more people who use the app, the more effective it will be, just like the public health measures we’ve been talking about throughout this pandemic.” Wisconsin Department of Health Services Secretary-designee Andrea Palm said. “Stay home, wash your hands, wear a mask, physically distance, and use the WI Exposure Notification app.”
The app is available in the Google Play store for Android users. Any iPhone users can turn on app in their phone’s settings.
The app is scheduled to launch Dec. 23.
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