New Mexicans urged to use app

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) is encouraging state residents to download the NM Notify app to report positive COVID-19 home tests, according to a news release from the DOH.Approximately 760,000 New Mexicans are already using the app to be notified if they’ve likely been exposed, allowing them to reduce the risk for family and friends, seek timely medical attention and stay home.

The app uses Bluetooth technology to communicate with other phones that have activated the app. Then, if one of the users verifies an infection of COVID-19, all users that have been in contact with the infected person within a 14-day period will receive a notification of possible exposure. The app then directs users on next steps to prevent additional spread of the virus.

The news release reports the NM Notify app is “completely safe and anonymous,” and fully protects users’ privacy. No personal data is collected through the app. The app is in wide use in many states and around the globe. According to Google and Apple data, every two downloads of the app can prevent one infection.

To learn more about the NM Notify Exposure Notification app, go to NMNotify.com.