COVID Alert is now available in Newfoundland and Labrador for download free through the Apple or Google Play app stores. Newfoundland and Labrador is the second province to launch the app, which will help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Other provinces and territories are expected to follow in the coming weeks and months.
The Provincial Government has been working in close partnership with the Government of Canada to launch COVID Alert. It has also consulted with the Information and Privacy Commissioner to ensure the highest standards of privacy are in place for those people who choose to use the app.
The use of COVID Alert is completely voluntary. The app does not use GPS or track a user’s particular geographic location. It does not share a person’s name, address or telephone contacts. The app does not collect or store any personal health information.
If a person chooses to download the app and tests positive for COVID-19, they will receive a one-time key from Public Health. When the key is entered into the app, COVID Alert notifies other app users who may have come in close contact with that person in the last 14 days. Those users will be asked to contact Public Health for advice and further guidance.
People who use the app are reminded that they should continue to follow current public health measures. Using COVID Alert does not lessen the importance of measures such as physical distancing, regular handwashing, proper respiratory etiquette or wearing a non-medical mask in public indoor spaces.
Quotes
“Launching COVID Alert today for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians means there is an important new tool in the toolbox when it comes to living with COVID-19. A lot of thought and work has gone into its development, and I’d like to thank everyone for their dedication.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“COVID Alert can help slow the spread of COVID-19 in our communities, and keep our loved ones healthy and safe. We all need to keep doing our part. COVID Alert is a secure, reliable and user-friendly app. I encourage everyone to download it today.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services
“Online service options have allowed us to continue to serve residents during the public health emergency, and the COVID alert app is the next step in our digital government response.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL
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Learn more
COVID Alert
New Mobile App to Help Notify Canadians of Potential COVID-19 Exposure Now Available
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador COVID-19 website
Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL, HCS_GovNL and @ServiceNL_
Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960, 725-9231
MeghanMcCabe@gov.nl.ca
Kathy Dicks-Peyton
Health and Community Services
709-729-6986, 699-1982
kathydickspeyton@gov.nl.ca
Krista Dalton
Digital Government and Service NL
709-729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca