Health Ministry mulling use of apps for improved COVID-19 contact tracing, monitoring

Dr. Frank Anthony

As it seeks to improve its COVID-19 contact tracing and monitoring, the Ministry of Health is exploring the possible use of electronic applications, according to Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony. 

During a COVID-19 update, Anthony said assessments are currently being done by the ministry to ascertain whether any of the applications that are available globally could be implemented in Guyana. “So, we’ve been talking to a number of stakeholders about it and we will see whether or not that can be implemented shortly,” he said.

The applications, he explained, would allow the ministry to keep track of persons who are put into self-isolation or self-quarantine and issue alerts to the central monitoring facility should they leave before being permitted to do so.