NHS Covid-19 app pings rise by over 70,000 to new record
The number of self-isolation alerts sent by the NHS Covid-19 app in England and Wales has risen to a new record of 689,313 in the week up to 21 July.
The figures represent an increase of over 70,000 compared with the previous week.
But the rate of increase was lower than the previous week, rising by 11% compared to 17%.
If you are “pinged” by the app you are advised – but not legally obliged – to self-isolate for 10 days.
However the government has said it is crucial for people to do so.
In recent weeks, there has been widespread criticism that the app has been sending out so many alerts that hundreds of thousands of people are self-isolating and missing work, causing widespread disruption.
It led to the government allowing some key workers – such as those working in food distribution – to be exempt from having to self-isolate if pinged. Instead they have to take daily tests.
And from 16 August, all fully-vaccinated people will not need to self-isolate if pinged by the app, although they will be encouraged to book a Covid PCR test.
The impact on businesses has resulted in calls for the 16 August deadline to be brought forward.
Agencies