After a «minor» outbreak of the coronavirus on Kythira, our island has been free of the disease for quite some time now. We deserve some praise, because in practice we demonstrate responsibility, and our thinking is guided by the dictates of science rather than by irresponsible outcries—which, unfortunately, do exist. I put «small» in quotation marks because it was small only in numerical terms. For the few who fell ill, it was by no means small, and it was certainly enormous for the family that lost a fellow citizen who was dear and beloved to us all.
As part of the «Staying Safe» initiative, our Municipality and Hospital have, quite rightly and in a pioneering move, ensured that COVID-19 tests are available for all travelers arriving in Kythira. The test is, of course, optional, but it is right for all of us to feel a sense of responsibility to keep our island free from this deadly virus. By following this practice, we will earn the valuable distinction of being a safe destination. So let’s not shy away from it—let’s rush to get tested, for our own good, for the good of our families, and for the good of us all. This is what the experts tell us; this is what every region is striving for.
Our maritime nation has a significant advantage in this area of inspection. Let’s not take it for granted. It’s a good idea for passengers to be informed before disembarking not only that the test exists, but also how useful it is. It is not only useful when someone is found to be a carrier; I assure you that it may be even more useful when the result shows that none of the passengers tested positive. But this result cannot be determined unless all passengers are willing to take the test.
