Map apps have rolled out services to help users better protect themselves amid the pneumonia outbreak, playing a major role in preventing and controlling the spread of the epidemic.

Information about the novel coronavirus epidemic provided by Amap.

Since the outbreak began, map apps have launched in-app programs where users can find out the latest information on the pneumonia caused by the novel coronavirus. Baidu Map and Tencent Map have allowed users to check for cases of the pneumonia around their neighborhood.

As more people go back to work, Amap added a new function to the platform that provides information about the passenger volume on subways on Feb. 12. Showing a scale of one to five, with five being the most crowded, the new service helps people choose less crowded trips to reduce potential risks.

The map apps will update the information on traffic control amid the epidemic in real time for users to choose a more suitable way to get around.

They have also allowed users to search for nearby outpatient clinics and check whether they have previously taken the same vehicles with those infected with the novel coronavirus, so they can get information faster and be more prepared.

With the big data provided by the map apps, the government can also learn the movements of the population, formulate plans to prevent and control the coronavirus in advance, and monitor the situation in a more targeted manner.