Google-owned navigation app Waze has added keywords such as “COVID”, “coronavirus” and “rumah sakit corona” (corona hospital) to help direct users to medical checkpoints and referral hospitals that can accommodate COVID-19 patients across the country.

“Waze is committed to helping drivers stay safe during the COVID-19 outbreak by giving accurate and updated information about road closures, treatment and medical check-up location,” Waze Indonesia country manager Marlin R. Siahaan said in a statement.

Marlin advised Waze users to immediately seek medical help when experiencing fever, cough, sore throat, tiredness or shortness of breath. “If our users experience such symptoms, they are advised to do a medical check-up at nearby hospitals, which can be find using Waze."

Waze is a digital map updated with user input. It collaborates with regional administrations and transportation authorities to reduce traffic congestion.

According to Health Ministry data, there are at least 132 referral hospitals for treating COVID-19 patients across Indonesia.

As of Monday, 579 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the country, with 49 deaths and 30 recoveries. (gis/kes)