This is according to developer Amber Group Limited (AGL) who outlined a number of the key features of the technology in a media release addressed to BVI News.

“Through the solution’s tracking, tracing, and geo-fencing features, authorities can also implement relevant quarantine requirements to safeguard the wider population. In cases where individuals are placed in quarantine, the technology enables random video check-ins and alerts when breeches to geo-fencing occur,” AGL stated.

It continued: “In addition, citizens and visitors are able to self-report their health status, book appointments for testing if they are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, and request emergency services such as the police or ambulance services.”

Manages entry of visitors

The technology which is described as being simple to manage will also enable the government the ability to pre-approve travellers through the BVI Gateway Portal — also a product of AGL — which will control entry into the territory while managing COVID-19 health cases.

“Through a seamless digital link across ministries and other agencies, governments are able to seamlessly screen visitors before they arrive in the country. It also enables the linking of initial screening information entered by visitors to immigration checkpoints and builds a secure digital health folder on each person entering the country,” AGL explained.

“Authorised officials can digitally record high-risk cases, isolate where necessary, and track those who came in close contact with affected persons to better manage risk,” it added.

New enhancements to come

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of AGL, Dushyant Savadia said that continued developments of the technology is expected as it continues to be implemented in other Caribbean countries.

He said: “With each iteration and deployment across the region, we continue to add new enhancements to the overall platform … We are proud of what we have accomplished and the part we are playing to help the region during this time of crisis.”

To date, Jamaica, St Lucia, Turks and Caicos Islands and Grenada have all implemented the technology to manage travel authorisation and border management during the COVID-19 pandemic period.