CORONAVIRUS: China Releases New App Tracks “Close Contact” With Illness

CORONAVIRUS: China Releases New App Tracks “Close Contact” With Illness

A new mobile app has been released in China that tracks people and sends them a warning if they’ve been in close contact with someone infected with the coronavirus.

According to China’s state news agency Xinhua, the “close contact detector” was issued on Saturday night. Those using the app can scan a QR code on such Chinese apps as WeChat and QQ, enter their information — including their name, phone number and government-issued identification number — and request information to see whether they’ve been in close contact with anyone infected by the coronavirus.

If the app discovers that the user may be at risk, they’ll be advised to contact local health authorities or stay at home. (CNBC)

Hot Takes:

  • I hope it works better than the Iowa Caucus app.
  • Seems kind of Big Brother-like.
  • Then again, if it helps stop the spread of the virus, bring it on.