Pupils asked to download track and trace app

Secondary school pupils in the Borders aged 12-15, preparing for their return to school, are being urged to download the Protect Scotland application if they have a mobile phone.
Dr Keith AllanDr Keith Allan
Dr Keith Allan

NHS Borders chiefs say the app, extended to include the younger age group in December 2020, will help pupils in protect themselves and those in their household from Covid-19, as the return to school gets under way.

Dr Keith Allan, associate director of public health at the local health authority, 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.

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“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.

“While 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.”

Deputy First Minister and cabinet secretary for education and skills, John Swinney, said: “Whilst lateral flow testing is in place for senior secondary pupils and will be extended to S1-S3 pupils after the Easter holidays, the app runs in the background and adds an additional protection.

“As pupils start to come back together, the more people that use it, the more effective it will be in slowing the spread of COVID-19.”