A NEW coronavirus information service created by the UK government has launched on WhatsApp.
Brits simply need to add a phone number into their contacts to access a range of advice, alerts and official info.
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The government said the new "chatbot" is designed to "combat the spread of coronavirus misinformation".
And it's also intended to help ensure people stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.
To use the service, simply add 07860 064422 into your phone contacts.
Then just message the word "hi" in a WhatsApp message to launch the chatbot.
"This service will help us ensure the public has a trusted source for the right information about coronavirus, updated with the latest public health guidance and providing assurance that they are not misled by any of the false information circulating," said Professor Yvonne Doyle, of Public Health England.
Matt Idema, Chief Operating Officer, WhatsApp, said: "At difficult times like these, people are using WhatsApp more than ever to connect with and support their friends, family and communities," explained Matt Idema, the Chief Operating Office at WhatsApp.
"We are pleased to be able to provide the UK Government with the communications tools to help them answer the public’s questions about the virus with reliable, timely health advice, in order to keep people safe."
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