Covid-19: Google testing new feature to enable sharing info of beds, oxygen
Google on Monday said it is testing a new feature in Maps
that enables people to ask about and share local information on availability of
beds and medical oxygen in select locations.
This is part of the tech giant's efforts to support the relief
efforts amid the deadly second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"...we're testing a new feature using the Q&A function in
Maps that enables people to ask about and share local information on
availability of beds and medical oxygen in select locations. As this will be
user generated content and not provided by authorised sources, it may be
required to verify the accuracy and freshness of the information before
utilizing it," it said.
As India reels under the impact of the second wave, hospitals in
several states are reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds.
Social media timelines are filled with SOS calls with people
looking for oxygen cylinders, hospital beds, plasma donors, and ventilators.
Google said
its teams are focused on three priority areas - ensuring people can access the
latest and most authoritative information; amplifying vital safety and
vaccination messages; and providing financial backing for affected communities,
health authorities and other organisations.
Searches on the COVID-19 vaccine displays key information around
side effects, effectiveness, and registration details, while treatment-related
queries surface guidance from ministry resources. On YouTube it is surfacing
authoritative information in a set of playlists, about vaccines, preventing the
spread of COVID-19, and facts from experts on COVID-19 care.
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