Residents are being asked to download the new app from the NHS for COVID-19 to help monitor cases of the virus, which was released today.
The government launched the NHS COVID-19 app, which uses QR codes to enable people to check-in with their phone on arrival when visiting certain venues, instead of filling out a check-in book or business-specific tool.
To ensure that the NHS COVID-19 app is effective, local hospitality outlets such as restaurants, pubs and coffee shops, will display NHS QR code posters on entry points to the premises and will face fines for failures to comply. Other venues like council premises and places of worship are also strongly recommended to display QR code posters on entry points.
Venues that are already using their own QR code system must also use the NHS Test and Trace QR code system. These QR codes will be an important way for NHS Test and Trace to contact customers with public health advice should you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive at one of these locations.
The app will also allow you to check symptoms, read the latest advice and enter any test results.
If you have got symptoms
- Stay at home if you have symptoms of coronavirus: Fever, new continuous cough, and loss or change in taste or smell
- Your whole household needs to stay at home if anyone has symptoms
- Get a test as soon as you get these symptoms
- Go to NHS coronavirus website or call 119
- If you cannot get a test, keep trying but your household must continue to stay at home (10 days for the person with symptoms and 14 days for the rest of the household)
- If you test positive you and your household will need to remain at home – 10 days for you and 14 days for your household.
Protect yourself and others from the virus
- Hands: Wash your hands frequently
- Face: Wear a cloth face covering in shops, public transport and any crowded space
- Space: Keep your distance from people outside your household and please don’t gather in big groups.
Some changes were made to public health guidance on Tuesday, 22 September. To keep up to date go to the governments website.
