Skiathos Island Achieves 95% Vaccination Level

Skiathos island. Photo source: ec.europa.eu

Skiathos is setting the example with nearly 95 percent of its population vaccinated against Covid-19, said Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis during his visit to the island this week.

The minister met with Skiathos Mayor Theodoros Tzoumas and was briefed on the island’s vaccination rollout, locals’ response to vaccination, and tourist flows in June and July.

During his visit to the island’s health center, Theoharis said Skiathos was a “model” to be followed and praised medical and hospital staff for their efforts in the vaccination campaign, adding that the level of vaccination will have a positive effect on incoming tourism.

Greek Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis, Deputy Education Minister Zeta Makri and Skiathos Mayor Theodoros Tzoumas.

The Greek tourism minister also met with local sector stakeholders, including Association of Skiathos Hotels President Alekos Efstathiou, with whom he discussed tourist traffic as well as challenges due to Covid-19.

Theoharis went on to underline the importance of vaccination, which he said is “the ticket to freedom”.

“Getting vaccinated is in our own best interests but also in the interest of the country as a whole,” he said, urging those with reservations to get the jab.

Looking ahead, the minister said Greece was creating the conditions for a fruitful future as long as attention is given to implementing health measures “so that we can bring good results in 2022 and in the coming years”.

“We should not focus on numbers – although I do not overlook their importance at all. However, numbers will produce more numbers only if the quality and reputation of our country are maintained at the highest level,” Theoharis said.

During his visit, the Greek tourism minister also attended the inauguration of the “Safe Water Sports” information and awareness center on Koukounaries beach aimed at strengthening safety policies and regulations with regard to recreation at sea.