Forth Valley pupils urged to download Protect Scotland app as they return to school
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The app, extended to include the younger age group in December 2020, will help pupils ton protect themselves and those in their household from COVID-19, as the part-time return to school gets underway.
NHS Forth Valley has reminded youngsters of the importance of not only downloading the app, but also ensuring that the code provided is entered if a person tests positive, to anonymously alert those who have been in close contact.
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Hide AdThe aim is to increase the app’s reach further, particularly as people start to come together in school settings over the coming weeks, to offer an additional layer of protection and reduce the risk of people spreading the virus unknowingly.
Dr Graham Foster, NHS Forth Valley’s director of public health, said: “I would encourage those aged 12 – 15 to consider downloading the free Protect Scotland app, and parents to encourage their children to get the app, if they have a compatible smartphone.
“The app helps support NHS Scotland’s Test and Protect system, adding an additional means of notifying people who have been exposed to the virus so they can isolate far quicker.
“Whilst the app runs in the background, we’re asking those who test positive and are provided with a code to make sure it is entered. Only by doing this can close contacts be quickly notified, self-isolate and get tested, which will help stop the spread of COVID-19.”