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A new mobile phone app has been launched that will inform users if they have been in close contact with other users who have tested positive for Covid-19.
Health Minister Robin Swann officially launched the new StopCOVID NI app today.
StopCOVID NI went live in the last 24 hours on the Apple and Google app stores and by 2pm today had already been downloaded more than 79,000 times.
Download Links
The Apple and Google links for downloading the app are
Playstore - PLAY.GOOGLE.COM (external link opens in a new window / tab)
Appstore - APPS.APPLE.COM (external link opens in a new window / tab)
The Health Minister stated: “The early demand for the StopCOVID NI app is really encouraging and I am sure this will be maintained as a result of the public information campaign.
“We need as many people as possible to download it and activate it.
“This app will support and supplement the Public Health Agency’s (PHA) existing telephone based contact tracing operation that is working to minimise the spread of the virus. It is another important weapon in the ongoing battle against the virus.
“Everyone right across Northern Ireland can play their part in this battle. That includes practising strict social distancing, washing our hands, wearing face coverings in shops and downloading this app.”
The app will be interoperable with the one already in use in the Republic of Ireland and is also highly likely to be compatible with apps introduced in future across the UK and Europe.
It uses only anonymised information in its operation to safeguard user privacy.
