We know Estonia
2.5.2022 | Estonia

Hoia covid app deactivated

Text Mark Taylor

Hoia covid app deactivated

 

On May 1, the covid-19 contact and tracking app Hoia was officially deactivated. This means the 300,000 users who downloaded the app will no longer be informed if they have had close contact with an individual infected with the virus. The app will also no longer be downloadable from the Google Play or Apple App Stores.

“The HOIA app was brought into use at the beginning of the pandemic when there were no vaccines available, and it was hugely necessary to warn people about the virus. Now the app has served its purpose, and people are far more aware of what to do to protect themselves,” Kerstin-Gertrud Kärblane, development manager at the Health Board’s Analysis and Development Center.

From May, only the elderly and anyone belonging to an at-risk group will be eligible to receive a free PCR test. As a result, fewer people will be tested going forward. These lower numbers making it harder for the app to function as it was originally intended. For the authorities, the responsibility now lies with individuals. If people feel sick, they are encouraged to take a quick test (if possible), stay at home and contact anyone they have been in close contact with.

Source ERR 

 

 

To learn more about this and similar topics
Covid-19 Covid App Hoia Hoia App Hoia App Deactivated Kerstin-Gertrud Kärblane PCR Test Virus

2.9.2026 | Estonia

Who Is Ülle Madise, Estonia’s New President-Elect?

Who Is Ülle Madise, Estonia’s New President-Elect?

Today, 2 September, presidential elections took place in the Riigikogu, or Estonian Parliament. Ülle Madise, the Chancellor of Justice, was … Read more

28.8.2026 | Estonia

A Hundred Reasons to Visit Põltsamaa

A Hundred Reasons to Visit Põltsamaa

What comes to mind when you hear the name Põltsamaa? Perhaps its famous mustard, a castle seen in social media … Read more

23.8.2026 | Estonia

This Is How West Harbour Is Being Transformed Into the Hub for Travel to Tallinn

This Is How West Harbour Is Being Transformed Into the Hub for Travel to Tallinn

The Helsinki–Tallinn route is one of Europe’s busiest international sea routes, and for many of us, travelling by ferry to … Read more

20.8.2026 | Estonia

Happy Anniversary, Estonia and Estonians! Palju õnne, Eesti ja eestlased!

Happy Anniversary, Estonia and Estonians! Palju õnne, Eesti ja eestlased!

“Süda, kuis sa ruttu tõusedkuumalt rinnus tuksuma,kui su nime suhu võtan,püha Eesti—isamaa!”   …or, freely translated: “Oh heart, how fiercely … Read more

18.8.2026 | Estonia

Now Confirmed: Tallinn Is Getting Its Own Sea Spa

Now Confirmed: Tallinn Is Getting Its Own Sea Spa

A year-round sea spa featuring outdoor and indoor pools alike will be built in the Kalasadam coastal area next to … Read more

15.8.2026 | Estonia

camera icon5
School Trips in Estonia Open Young People’s Eyes: Estonia Offers Experiences, Learning, and Time Together

School Trips in Estonia Open Young People’s Eyes: Estonia Offers Experiences, Learning, and Time Together

What would a school trip be like where pupils descend into an underground mine, try their hand at medieval knightly … Read more

14.8.2026 | Estonia

Estonian Hotel and Restaurant Association: Rising Costs Are Now Driving Restaurants Out of Business

Estonian Hotel and Restaurant Association: Rising Costs Are Now Driving Restaurants Out of Business

Estonia’s hotels have attracted a fairly good number of customers this summer, but revenue per room is falling. At the … Read more

13.8.2026 | Estonia

Almost Around Estonia on Roller Skis

Almost Around Estonia on Roller Skis

Two-time Guinness World Record holder, Finnish endurance athlete and TV journalist Teemu Virtanen, 57 set another world record in Estonia … Read more