In a recent update to Apple"s Siri, the voice assistant now provides a questionnaire, using US Public Health Service and CDC data) when users ask if they have the COVID-19 infection (via Engadget). After users invoke Siri by asking the question, it will ask them if they"re exhibiting systems, which include fever or respiratory problems, and advising them, if infected, in the meanwhile to avoid contact with others.
If the symptoms appear to be extreme, the voice assistant implores the users to call 911, redirecting them to the Apple App Store to download telehealth apps so they may also remotely consult with healthcare professionals. Outside the U.S., users will be directed towards national health resources instead.
Apple released a COVID-19 symptom triage tool within Siri. Ask “how do I know if I have coronavirus?” and it’ll walk you through a CDC-approved flow.
— Alexis Córdova (@acordova) March 21, 2020
This is what voice assistants should be for.
In efforts to curb the virus, Apple has contributed over $15 million in relief efforts, donating "millions" of facemasks to healthcare workers in the U.S. and Europe.