Singapore’s Government Technology Agency (GovTech) and Ministry of Health (MOH) have colloborated to develop and launch TraceTogether, a mobile app for contact tracing to combat COVID-19 spread.
TraceTogether works on a consent basis where users explicitly agree to download and activate the app on their phones. It leverages Bluetooth connectivity between phones to detect and record encounters with other participating TraceTogether users in close proximity.
If a user is interviewed by MOH as part of contact tracing efforts, the person can consent to send TraceTogether data recorded on the phone to the ministry for further follow up.
This enables contact tracers to inform TraceTogether users who are close contacts of COVID-19 cases quicker. Users can then take necessary action such as monitoring their own health closely for signs of flu-like symptoms.
Early detection could potentially help reduce the risk of spread and better protect others.
Singapore’s Smart Nation and Digital Government Group will be working with the public and private sectors to raise awareness and encourage adoption of the app.
Those keen on participating can download the app from Google Play or the App Store.
Entelechy Asia 