DOH launches AlohaSafe to slow COVID-19 spread
Posted on Mar 1, 2021 in Capitol Connection, FeaturedHawai‘i residents are being urged to download a free notification app to their smartphones to help control the spread of COVID-19. The app is intended to support the state Department of Health’s contact tracing efforts by using Bluetooth technology to record interactions between other users of AlohaSafe. It can notify users if they have been exposed to a COVID-19 infected individual who is also an app user. The app will not identify the infected user or provide any other personal identification.
AlohaSafe was first piloted in Maui County and credited with helping to control a surge in COVID cases on Lānaʻi. “The app was critical in helping us control the spread,” said Mayor Mike Victorino. “We strongly believe these types of technological advances can help us get the upper hand in the fight against COVID-19.” It was developed in partnership with aio Digital and the Hawai‘i Executive Collaborative, and is the state’s official COVID-19 exposure notification app. “AlohaSafe Alert is another important tool in the fight against COVID-19,” said Dr. Libby Char, state health director. “This innovative app was developed for the community, by the community and has the potential to greatly increase the speed of the exposure notification process. It allows anyone who receives an alert to quickly self-quarantine and get tested if needed.”
Some key features of AlohaSafe Alert include:
• Participants may opt in/out at any time.
• Only DOH officials will have access to data, and all data will be kept anonymous.
• The app allows smartphones to interact but does not keep track of any GPS data.
• Should you test positive for COVID-19, your identity is kept private.
To download the free app, go to the Google Play or Apple App Store on your phone. For details, visit https://www.alohasafealert.org/.