Mixed reactions in Naples about rise in COVID-19 cases

People around downtown Naples on Friday had mixed reactions to the rise in COVID-19 cases.

Walking down 5th Avenue on a Friday night, everyone agreed it was quieter than normal.

Some people say the spike in cases was a wakeup call, and maybe people will take it more seriously. Others are not surprised by the numbers and think the precautions we are already taking are enough.

“And now we are seeing increased numbers every day,” Sepp Ronay said. “And there is no sign of it getting better, and it’s very concerning and very worrying.”

Ronay says he is concerned and thinks it could possibly get worse.

“The spike has been massive,” Ronay said. “It’s not just a few extra every day.”

“I mean, my mom canceled plans to come to see us because of the spikes and everything,” Catherine Smith said. “So it definitely concerns us.”

Smith’s mother was supposed to visit from Texas, but after seeing the numbers, she didn’t feel it was safe.

“All in all, I think people need to take it more seriously,” Smith said.

But others say this spike has no effect on their plans.

“I’m not worried about it at all,” Jene Vargo said. “I’m one of those guys, if you are scared to get it or in a bad position health-wise, you probably don’t want to be out and about, but I feel as good as ever.”

Vargo says he was not surprised to hear the record numbers.

“Totally expecting it,” Vargo said. “I mean Florida is the state that’s like, ‘Ah, come on, we are here to party.’”

Others agree with Vargo and say putting restrictions on bars isn’t going to help.

“You can’t shut everything down like that,” Nicholas Forbes said. “There’s such a spike here, and nowhere else. I think it’s a little bit farfetched.”

Some people said the City of Naples should have approved the mask mandate because they think that would help the numbers from rising, while others think it should be a personal decision to wear masks.