The risk level for SP2 postcode areas is 'medium', according to the newly-launched NHS Covid-19 app.

This means that Wiltshire Council, or a neighbouring local authority, "has a high or rising levels of infection".

The app, available to download from today, asks users to enter the first half of their postcode, for instance SP2.

Salisbury Journal:

Salisbury Journal:

This is so the system can notify users when their area's risk level, which could either be medium or high, changes.

In England, the risk level is based on the local authority watch list, the app says.

This is determined each week by the Secretary of State for Health and Social care based on advice from the Chief Medical Officer for England, NHS Test and Trace, the Joint Biosecurity Centre and Public Health England.

The app also allows people to access advice, check their symptoms, enter their test result, enable the contact tracing function and, crucially, check in at venues by scanning the barcode, which from today, close-contact businesses and those from the hospitality industry are legally required to display at the entrance.

Wiltshire Council is urging residents to download the app and "help support the test and trace service".

Cllr Philip Whitehead, Leader of Wiltshire Council, said: “We are seeing COVID-19 spikes across the country so I urge people to download the app and help support the test and trace service so together we can keep the virus under control here in Wiltshire and protect people as much as possible.

“Finally, as ever, we ask that people continue to play their part by washing hands regularly, socially distancing, wearing face coverings where appropriate, and following the latest guidance. We really do appreciate everyone’s support."