Public health authorities in the state of Louisiana have launched a fully anonymized contact tracing app that is designed to help use the power of information technology to try and curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
The Covid Defense app, available for free download on the iOS App Store as well as Google Play, uses Bluetooth technology to set up a virtual six-foot perimeter around your phone. When another phone enters that particular perimeter and its user is known to have tested positive, the Covid Defense app gives you a notification.
However, this contact tracing app does this without collecting personal data or tracking your whereabouts.
Created in partnership with Google and a local non-profit organization, the Covid Defense app is poised to make a significant difference in the fight against curbing the spread of the pandemic in Louisiana.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Anonymized Contact Tracing
- The rise of anonymized contact tracing apps create new opportunities for businesses to develop privacy-focused technologies that continue to address public health issues.
- Bluetooth Tracking Technology
- Incorporating Bluetooth technology in contact tracing apps present opportunities for businesses to integrate similar technology in different industries to increase the efficiency of tracking and monitoring.
- Partnerships for Public Health
- Collaborations between local non-profit organizations, tech companies, and public health authorities create opportunities for businesses to get involved and mobilize resources towards addressing public health issues.
Where This Applies
- Healthcare
- Healthcare providers can learn from the anonymized data and tracking technology used in contact tracing apps to develop their own healthcare tracking applications for better monitoring of patient's conditions.
- Retail
- Bluetooth tracking technology can be used in retail industry to track customers, analyze foot traffic, and personalize shopping experiences.
- Transportation
- Incorporating Bluetooth technology in vehicles can provide transportation companies real-time data and the ability to monitor fleet vehicle usage for efficient management and maintenance.
