[Withdrawn] NHS COVID-19 app: how to use the app
Updated 28 March 2023
Applies to England and Wales
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How to enter a positive test result
If you are under 18 years old and test positive for coronavirus (COVID-19), you should notify a trusted adult before taking any action.
Entering a test result
If you’re using app version 5.0 or later, you can enter any positive lateral flow or positive PCR result for contact tracing, whether it’s from an NHS or paid-for test. You will not be asked to enter an 8-character code, even if you’ve got one from the COVID-19 testing service.
You cannot enter a negative or void result, as the app will only accept a positive test result for contact tracing.
If you’re using an older version of the app (earlier than 5.0), you can only enter a test result from an NHS test and you’ll be asked to enter an 8-character code. Make sure you’re using the latest version to get the latest features and guidance.
What happens when you enter a test result
When you enter your positive result, you can choose to share your result for contact tracing. The app will anonymously notify other app users who were near you that they might be at risk.
They’ll get a ‘close contact’ alert with signposting to guidance on how to stay safe and protect others. They will not be required to stay at home (self-isolate). Contact tracing helps prevent the spread of COVID-19.
You’ll also get the latest health advice based on the information you’ve given.
The app does not access your personal details or track your location. It does not share your result with other services.
If you took an NHS lateral flow test
Telling the app about your NHS lateral flow result for anonymous contact tracing is not the same as reporting your result to the COVID-19 testing service on GOV.UK
If you took an NHS lateral flow test, you should report your result on GOV.UK if you haven’t done so already – you can also do this by calling 119 (only if positive).
Note: You cannot report a result on GOV.UK (or by calling 119) more than 24 hours after taking the test. You cannot report a result from a paid-for test on GOV.UK or by calling 119.
If you’re eligible for COVID-19 treatment, you must report your NHS lateral flow result so the NHS can contact you about treatment.
If you get an error message when trying to enter a code in the app
You may get the following error message when you try to enter your COVID-19 test result in the app:
‘Code not recognised. Please make sure you are using a valid code.’
In app version 5.0 or later, you no longer need to enter an 8-character code to enter a test result. You should update your app to the latest version, then re-enter your test result in the app.
How to check symptoms
You can check your symptoms in the app by selecting the ‘Check symptoms’ button. You’ll be asked a number of simple questions with ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answers. When you’ve answered the questions, you can check the summary of your answers before you submit this information to the app. The app will provide relevant guidance based on your answers and where you live. Keep the app up to date to ensure you receive the latest health guidance. Guidance may differ between England and Wales.
You can enter symptoms up to 5 days in the past.
How to update the app
The NHS COVID-19 app is frequently updated with improvements to content, accessibility and functionality. It is important that you keep the app updated to ensure that you receive the latest advice and guidance.
Depending on your phone and app update settings, the app may update by itself.
You can read further information on how to enable automatic app upgrade, or how to manually upgrade:
As the app uses technology from Apple and Google, it’s also important to make sure you’re using the latest version of your phone’s operating system.
Sometimes, when an update to the app is very important, we may send you a message asking you to update your app or operating system.
How to use the app in another country
The app is available in England and Wales.
It is not compatible with contact tracing apps in other countries. Therefore, if you travel outside England or Wales, you will not receive any alerts as a result of ‘close contact’ with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 and shared their result using their own country’s app.
If you develop symptoms, test positive for COVID-19 or get an exposure notification while you are away from home, you should always follow the local guidance of the country you are in.
Get help with COVID-19 enquiries service is available if you have a specific enquiry about international travel.
How to delete the app
The app isn’t mandatory and you’ll always be able to delete the app whenever you want.
Instructions on how to delete apps on your smartphone are available for the following:
If you choose to delete the app, you’ll no longer receive alerts and notifications.