Government Launches COVID-19 Contact-Tracing App

The national health department has launched the Covid Alert SA app, which notifies people if they have been in contact with someone who has Covid-19.

President Cyril Ramaphosa called the COVID-19 pandemic the “gravest crisis in the history of our democracy”. And it has been acknowledged that South Africans have felt the devastating impact of the pandemic on so many levels.

Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize, has repeatedly said that one of the most critical aspects of combating COVID-19 is the ability to detect people who have tested positive for COVID-19 early. Then, to track and trace those who have been in close contact with and refer them for appropriate management – whether it is immediate testing, isolation or quarantine.

The COVID Alert SA app uses Bluetooth contact-tracing technology to let people know if they have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19. It gives everyone the chance to understand their exposure to the virus, so that we can protect every member of the community, especially those most at risk. It is an important tool to combating the pandemic, as it can help slow the spread of the virus and save lives. Anyone in South Africa who has a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone can access this app for free.

All South African smartphone users are encouraged to download the COVID Alert SA app today and add their smartphone to our country’s efforts to stand up against COVID-19 and its effects on our society and our economy.