Combating coronavirus: Al Hosn app increases people's confidence to return to workplaces

The Al Hosn app is playing a crucial role in increasing people's confidence of returning to workplaces and public places, while protecting their families and colleagues, as the government has eased some Covid-19 restrictions, said a top official.

Tayal Al Dhiyebi, CEO Aldar Properties, underlined the app has helped private firms detect thousands of people to ensure they are Covid-19 negative.

"If you want to scan over 5,000 employees in 45 minutes to find out whether they have undergone the Covid-19 test and their result is negative, you just have to check their phones," said Al Dhiyebi during a virtual meeting held by UAE's public and private sectors to discuss plans for the safe reopening of activities and return to workplaces.

Keeping track

The app was launched on April 26 to track those who have been in contact with infected cases, and to receive Covid-19 test results. The app helps limit the spread of the virus by locating and identifying people who either have Covid-19 or have been in contact with a patient.

Rashid Al Baloushi, undersecretary Abu Dhabi Department of Health, said all sectors of the economy will be reopened, provided the people and establishments adhere to the precautionary measures that have been put in place by authorities to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Frontliners' call

UAE Covid-19 frontline heroes and users of the Al Hosn app have advised the community to download it for their safety.

In a video posted on Twitter by the Abu Dhabi Media Office, an Emirati health worker said the app is superb and has amazing benefits.

Another Emirati female doctor said: "It's a free app and protects families and their relatives. People with the virus can spread it to other people."

"As soon as we know about the confirmed case, we use the coded information to find out who the person was in close contact with, trace and test them and start treatment at an early stage. This minimises the number of infected cases and avoids other complications."

A male health worker said: "The app is for our own safety and the safety of the community, in general. It is a safe application and has been recommended by the government.

"It's important that everyone download this app. It is very safe and doesn't consume one's battery."

ismail@khaleejtimes.com 

Ismail Sebugwaawo

A professional journalist originating from Kampala, Uganda, Ismail is a happy father with strong attachment to family and great values for humanity. He has practiced journalism in UAE for the past 13 years, covering the country's parliament (FNC) and crimes, including Abu Dhabi Police, public prosecution and courts. He also reports about important issues in education, public health and the environment, with a keen interest in human interest stories. When out of reporting duties, he serves the Ugandan community in Abu Dhabi as he wants to see his countrymen happy. Exercising and reading are part of his free time.