People in Wales are being urged today to consider downloading the COVID-19 Symptom Tracker app which was launched a number of weeks back. 

The data is used to guage the spread of the virus and also to see which areas and people are reporting no symptoms at all. Experts say that if the majority of people in Wales did this, then tracking the virus would become easier, as part of many different ways to get a clearer picture.

Many people across Wales have downloaded the app but encouraging people to report on a daily basis whether they are sick or not, is vitally important.

Developed by researchers at King’s College London and healthcare science company, ZOE, the COVID-19 Symptom Tracker is already being used by more than 38,000 people in Wales, and over 2 million across the UK. People are using the app to track their daily health and any potential COVID-19 symptoms. It is also being used by healthcare and hospital workers.

First Minister, Mark Drakeford said: "Having a range of evidence and data is crucial in helping us build a clear picture of how the virus is behaving and affecting everyone’s lives.

"Crucially this app can help us anticipate potential COVID hot spots and get our NHS services ready. I’m asking everyone in Wales to download the new COVID Symptom Tracker app, so you can help protect our workers and save lives. Together we can build the best scientific picture so we are better armed to fight this terrible disease.

The research team at King’s College London and ZOE are analysing the data to generate new insights about the disease. An interactive map allowing anyone to see the distribution of COVID in their area is available at covid.joinzoe.com as well as frequent science updates.

The app is available to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play from the links at covid.joinzoe.com. 

Daily symptom maps and other content are available via https://covid.joinzoe.com/blog