NHS Covid app tweaked so fewer people are 'pinged'
It will look back over two days instead of five
The NHS Covid-19 app is being changed to try and reduce the number of people who are being 'pinged' and having to self-isolate.
There has been an increase in people being pinged since lockdown restrictions ended, which has lead to problems for some businesses who have struggled to get enough people to work.
The “logic” behind the app’s system will be tweaked, meaning a person will be pinged if they've been near to an asymptomatic positive case within the last two days.
Currently the app looks back over the last five days.
The Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) said that the changes do not mean the sensitivity has been altered, and that it doesn't put people more at risk.
Reducing disruption
“We want to reduce the disruption that self-isolation can cause for people and businesses, while ensuring we’re protecting those most at risk from this virus,” Health and Social Care Secretary, Sajid Javid said.
“This update to the app will help ensure that we are striking the right balance.
“It’s so important that people isolate when asked to do so in order to stop the spread of the virus and protect their communities.”
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