Colombian president launches app to track COVID-19

BOGOTA, Colombia

Colombian President Ivan Duque announced the launch of an application for mobile devices Sunday that will help centralize information related to the spread, prevention and treatment of the novel coronavirus in the country.

After meeting with health authorities and mobile phone operators, Duque said at a press conference that many companies are working with the government to convey information on the measures being adopted to prepare for and prevent the spread of the virus.

"The CoronApp-Colombia application will contain preventive measures and will be free for everyone to download,” he said. “We have the support of the main telecom companies so that it does not affect the data plans of Colombians.”

The application, which is available for Android and iOS, allows users to register friends or family members to report news about their health status and receive news and prevention advice. It also contains various phone numbers people can reach out to in case of an emergency.

The app will also be promoted through text messages in which individuals will find advice about hygiene measures to prevent the virus.

“With this, everyone will have information on last-minute issues and also on preventive measures,” Duque said.

The head of state said authorities have been monitoring the spread of the coronavirus in the country after confirming the first coronavirus case, a 19-year-old woman from Bogota who recently arrived from Milan, Italy.

The president also asked event and hotel managers to take the necessary precautions to protect the people who use their services.

"We have been monitoring the containment phase especially with the hospital network, and at the airports we have checked to verify that all the migratory points have well-trained officers and that the protocols are active," he said.

Health Minister Fernando Ruiz said authorities are working on strengthening the border areas.