NHS app could save more lives than Apple and Google version, scientists claim

0
144

THE NHS app could save more lives than one made by Apple and Google, scientists have claimed.

Oxford University experts advising on the NHS contact tracing app say their modelling shows it could save more lives than the tech giants version.

The new NHS app

Both apps use Bluetooth to log when people come into close contact and then send alerts when near someone with symptoms of coronavirus.

However, now scientists from Oxford’s Big Data Institute (BDI) reckon the NHS app can get crucial warnings out faster because its artificial intelligence system can diagnose symptoms itself.

Most of the countries using Apple and Google’s model do not alert people to self-isolate until they test positive for the virus.

Adviser on the app Professor Christophe Fraser said: “These adjustments could potentially save more lives and build more trust and confidence for users that the system can effectively stop the spread of Covid-19.”

Last month a report by Oxford University found that a contact-tracing app could stop the spread of coronavirus before a vaccine is found if more than 56 percent of the population use it.

The app, named NHS Covid-19, could prove to be a vital tool for the government in implementing a track-and-trace strategy and easing lockdown measures going forward if successful.

It has been on trial of the Isle of Wight this past week ahead of a potential national rollout, though users of phones made before 2017 have reported problems and glitches.

Medics have now claimed that the app may have limited use if it fails to identify the full spectrum of symptoms produced by the coronavirus.

It comes as the Matt Hancock revealed Summer holidays for Brits will be cancelled this year.

The Health Secretary told This Morning that the public likely won’t be able to go away for a getaway for the rest of the summer months.

He was asked by Phil and Holly whether summer would be cancelled.

Mr Hancock replied: “I think that’s likely to be the case.

“I think it’s unlikely that big lavish international holidays are going to be possible for this summer.”

Appearing earlier on Sky News, Mr Hancock has confirmed Brits can meet a different person outside every day from tomorrow but must still keep their distance.

He explained the nation could see different people one at a time outside- as long as they continued to maintain social distancing.