SOMERVILLE, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — A new smartphone app created by the state will let you know if you've been exposed to COVID-19.
The app, called "MassNotify," will let users opt-in to a system that will tell them if they were around a person who tested positive.
Each user downloads the app on their phone, and enables Bluetooth, which reaches out to other phones that have the app in the user's area.
The app was developed in partnership with Google and Apple, and is available on Android and iPhone.
When someone tests positive, they anonymously let the system know, and the app warns people who may have been in close proximity.
The state says the app is completely confidential, and other users won't receive any information about the person who tests positive.
Somerville and Methuen are the first two communities to pilot the program. Somerville Mayor Joe Curtatone said the app could help keep the community safe.
"The more people who can sign up, the better," he said.
Both Mayor Curtatone and the state say anyone who enrolls can opt-out at any time.
WBZ's James Rojas (@JamesRojasWBZ) has more:
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