WhatsApp and the WHO Launched a Chatbot to Provide Users with Accurate Coronavirus Information
WhatsApp Messenger, together with the World Health Organization (WHO), launched a chatbot with up-to-date and reliable information on the COVID-19 disease caused by the novel coronavirus, the WHO said in a statement.
To access the chatbot, users can click on the link that immediately opens a dialogue in WhatsApp or add the number of the World Health Organization (+41 79 893 18 92) to the contact list and then open the desired dialogue with this contact. To activate a conversation, you need to send any message to the chat. After that, the chatbot menu will appear in the conversation.
To receive updates on #COVID19 from WHO add this number— +41 79 893 18 92 to your contacts and send a @WhatsApp message. You’ll automatically be registered to receive updates and also have an option to ask for more information as shown below. pic.twitter.com/WXaGd88AGf
— WHO Uganda (@WHOUganda) March 20, 2020
With the help of this service, users can get the latest data on the outbreak of COVID-2019 as well as find out all the necessary information on the novel coronavirus. Besides, the service debunks myths about the disease, suggests what measures should be taken so as not to become infected, features recommendations for travelers, and provides links to the latest news regarding the pandemic.
It’s an honor to work with @WHO to provide this simple service to get the latest information directly from the experts right on WhatsApp. Tap the link below to get started. Share these tips and de-bunked rumors with your friends and family 🙏 https://t.co/WWhbKccdAB pic.twitter.com/EYCuAliCk2
— WhatsApp Inc. (@WhatsApp) March 20, 2020
Currently, the chatbot is only available in English, but soon it will also be able to support Russian, Arabic, Chinese, French, and Spanish.
The introduced chatbot uses data that are also published on the WHO website itself. Its main task is to offer a more convenient information tool for those who often use WhatsApp and, at the same time, want to keep abreast of the current situation by having reliable information about COVID-19.