Perplexed by NHS Highland’s stance on coronavirus figures

I read the letter from Andrew Hemmings in last week’s Campbeltown Courier regarding NHS Highland’s communications and smiled at the comment referring to the use of a ‘helpful dictionary’.

I agree with the sentiment behind the letter. If I extrapolate, Andrew is saying transparency with regards to the specific location for COVID-19 instances in South Kintyre would lead to greater adherence to social distancing guidelines.

Inter-alia, non publication leads to a ‘not in my back yard’ approach with subsequent non-adherence. This air of complacency is readily apparent here if one is brave enough to venture into one of the mass shopping avenues in the ‘wee toon’.

On display are large banners, strategically marked zones inside and outside, distancing requirements printed on staff clothing, queuing outside at two plus metre intervals and one-way systems – the impression being a safe social distancing experience is about to begin.

The following are some common beliefs borne out by shopping activity: if you pass someone quickly enough although within touching distance of them, the risk of COVID-19 transmission is negated; that the risk of COVID-19 transmission is minimised if you apologise saying ‘sorry’ as you infringe the social distance by passing through zones occupied by people and that ‘it’s okay’ to pass close to someone because one does not have any COVID-19 symptoms.

Shops are doing a magnificent job in these unprecedented times but we all need to take a minute and think about how easily and quickly this horrible virus can be spread and, just as easily, how if everyone follows a few simple guidelines, we can reduce the risk to each and every one of us. I concur with the belief publishing South Kintyre COVID-19 statistics would assist in removing any tendencies towards complacency because there would be the realisation among some that ‘we here, are not immune’.

Captain Val Hope, Campbeltown.