Targeted testing for the coronavirus is underway on Saturday in Paphos and in Aradippou of Larnaca following a high number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the two areas.

Around 1000 RNA tests will be performed in Paphos starting from Saturday until Tuesday. The tests are carried out at the site of the former District Officer’s residence. People do not need to get out of their cars while the test is performed.

Paphos residents who were tested said they hoped that the real situation in their city will now be revealed.

Paphos Mayor Phedonas Phedonos said 1300 persons are registered for the test although the municipality is expecting at least 1000 to come forward.

However, a small number did not respond to the telephone calls by the municipality to come forward while 18% of those in the vulnerable groups said they are apprehensive to visit the test site.

The mayor pointed out that this large sample would be a powerful tool for the ministerial committee and scientists to draw safe conclusions about the next steps to be taken.

The selection of 1000 people was made randomly by the Ministry of Health based on demographic criteria (age, gender) set by the scientific / epidemiological team of the Ministry.  Sampling is carried out by NIPD Genetics.

Those coming forward need to present their identity card and their email or an email of a relative. Testing is done by appointment.

Sampling in Aradippou of Larnaca district is in its second day. Mayor Evangelos Evangelides said on Friday workers from the front line were tested and on Saturday, 200 more tests will be carried out on people who came into contact with the 39 confirmed cases of coronavirus.

Although around 300 people were scheduled to be tested, he said with today’s tests, the numbers will reach 500. When results are ready, decisions will be taken for the benefit of the region, he added.

Invited to comment on reports that the whole of Aradippou municipality is quarantined, Evangelides said this is not easy to happen as there are many farmers and animal breeders that need to visit their farms on a daily basis.

He said more restrictive measures can be taken for the benefit of the region. The mayor said his municipality was not informed from the experts about the extent of the problem and thus insufficient measures were taken. Aradippou residents, the mayor added, are very concerned with the developments however are respecting the Minister of Health’s decrees and is taking steps to contain the spread of “the invisible enemy”.