New chatbot to answer coronavirus queries

A new chatbot, COVID-19 Response Bangladesh, has been launched through Facebook Messenger to help people with information and services related to the coronavirus amidst the outbreak. 

Appinion BD, SAJIDA Foundation, Renata Limited, and Vertex Chambers built the chatbot in collaboration. 

A chatbot is a software that conducts a conversation via audio or text. Such programs are often designed to convincingly simulate how a human would behave as a conversational partner. Chatbots are generally used for customer service or information acquisition.

COVID-19 Response Bangladesh is a textual chatbot embedded in Facebook Messenger. 

The bot can be used in either Bangla or English. It is currently offering various information and services such as key facts about the outbreak, doctor consultation, advice on mental health, access to emergency services, etc.

It can be accessed through this link by logging in to Facebook.

COVID-19 Response Bangladesh is in its ‘alpha’ phase, which means it is likely to undergo further modifications.