Coronavirus: App ‘ready by end of June’ and call to extend face-covering use – BBC News

Here are five things you need to know about the coronavirus outbreak this Friday morning. We'll have another update for you at 18:00 BST.

It wasn't ready to accompany last week's launch of the NHS test and trace system in England - but business minister Nadhim Zahawi says the NHS contact-tracing app should be in place by the end of June. NHS bosses have said a system to track people who have come into close contact with those with the virus is important to avoid a second surge in cases. Different methods are being used in each of the home nations, as our report explains.

Face coverings should be compulsory in all places where social distancing is not possible - not just on public transport - says the doctors' union. The comments from the British Medical Association come after the government said passengers in England must wear a face covering from 15 June. They are recommended in Scotland and Northern Ireland in places where social distancing is more difficult, while the Welsh government says it is a personal choice.

While the government is allowing dentists in England to resume work from Monday, the British Dental Association is warning patients to expect only a "skeleton service" after a poll suggested just 36% would reopen. Some dentists say they were not given enough warning, while others lack the necessary protective kit.

The pandemic has not affected all communities equally, with wealth appearing to be a major factor. Stephanie Hegarty explores why poorer people are more likely to catch - and die from - Covid-19.

Media playback is unsupported on your device

British drug maker AstraZeneca says new deals will enable it to supply two billion doses of a virus vaccine, should the product being developed with Oxford University scientists prove effective. AstraZeneca has agreed to supply half of the doses to low and middle-income countries.

Get a longer coronavirus briefing from the BBC in your inbox, each weekday morning, by signing up here.

...the guidance on wearing face coverings, in light of the government announcement concerning their use on public transport. You can find more information, advice and guides on our coronavirus page.

What questions do you have about coronavirus?

In some cases, your question will be published, displaying your name, age and location as you provide it, unless you state otherwise. Your contact details will never be published. Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy.

Use this form to ask your question:

If you are reading this page and can't see the form you will need to visit the mobile version of the BBC website to submit your question or send them via email to YourQuestions@bbc.co.uk. Please include your name, age and location with any question you send in.

Go here to read the rest:

Coronavirus: App 'ready by end of June' and call to extend face-covering use - BBC News