With voice-assisted tools released by Amazon and Apple, you can answer a few questions to figure out if you need further medical assistance for COVID-19.
Simply say, “Hey, Siri” for iPhones or “Alexa” for Amazon devices, and ask if you have the coronavirus.
These technologies are no replacement for professional medical advice, but they can help you figure out first steps at home when the health care system is overwhelmed with long wait times.
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Amazon announced Thursday that it launched a screening tool for the United States that will talk you through some symptom-checkers.
"Ask, "Alexa, what do I do if I think I have COVID-19?" or "Alexa, what do I do if I think I have coronavirus?," and Alexa will ask a series of questions about your travel history, symptoms, and possible exposure. Based on your responses, Alexa will provide CDC guidance given your risk level and symptoms," Amazon said in a statement.
Alexa will also pipe a tune for 20 seconds if you ask her to “sing a song” to encourage effective handwashing habits.
Apple launched similar voice-assistant technology earlier in the week for users to utilize Siri for advice on the coronavirus.
Their information comes from the U.S. Public Health Service, a division of the Department of Health and Human Services, as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, according to CNBC.
On Friday, Apple also launched an app and website dedicated to screening information to see if you need to get tested for COVID-19, details about the pandemic and links to other resources, Verge reported.
"This new screening tool is designed to be a resource for individuals and does not replace instructions from healthcare providers or guidance from state and local health authorities." —Apple press release
CDC guidelines as of Friday recommend that people who think they have the novel coronavirus should stay at home unless experiencing "an emergency warning sign."
They point out that many with COVID-19 only experience mild symptoms and can recover at home. Call your doctor before going in, and keep up with the most up-to-date recommendations on CDC's website.
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