The German contact tracing app is set to launch sometime this week, the latest country to adopt the Apple/Google API as part of its coronavirus response. Unconfirmed reports say that the launch date is tomorrow.
Germany is also relaxing travel restrictions into the country …
Reuters reports that the government confirmed the plan but wouldn’t be drawn on the exact day.
It comes two weeks after Italy launched its own contact-tracing app, also using the API – with downloads off to a good start. Other European countries are also adopting or switching to the app.
After delays to ensure the bluetooth technology would work at the correct distance, the government says the app will be a vital tool to help avoid a second wave of infections.
“It’s coming this week,” Spahn told ARD television, but he declined to confirm German media reports that the app would be launched on Tuesday.
Germany has had a lower death rate than many European countries thanks to early social distancing measures and rapid implementation of a test program.
DW reports that the country is today lifting a blanket ban on travel from the UK and other EU countries, saying that it will replace it with travel advice tailored to specific countries and regions.
Not everyone is comfortable with this.
The government is simply urging caution, asking people to avoid unnecessary travel.
The German contact tracing app should help the country monitor the impact of the new policy.
Image: Pxhere
