COVID-19 Exposure App Rolls Out On Smartphones In Washington State

Washington residents can now track potential COVID-19 exposures in the state -- all through a new smartphone app.

The app, called "WA Notify," was launched Monday (November 30) to curb the spread of coronavirus in the Evergreen State, according to KOMO. Gov. Jay Inslee told reporters the app aims to alert users about COVID-19 exposure.

It's voluntary to use the app, and users can opt out at any time. If you have an iPhone, you can enable the "exposure notifications" feature in the device's settings. Android device users have can download the app. Residents will be alerted if they spent time near another user who later tests positive for the novel virus.

Washington has struggled during the COVID-19 pandemic, and health officials nationwide are worried about a potential spike in cases after Thanksgiving. "Health officials said if 15 percent of people with smart phones in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties use the app, infections could drop by 11 percent and deaths could decline by 15 percent," KOMO wrote.

WA Notify doesn't collect nor reveal any location or personal data while in use, and it's available in 29 different languages. It also had a monthlong pilot program at the University of Washington. Over a dozen states in America and more than 30 countries use the technology.

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