Unfortunately, due to the Coronavirus pandemic, much of the world is in lockdown as we desperately try to gain some control over the virus and stop it from spreading. It’s a stressful time for just about everyone and one of the most effective ways of regaining control (other than personal hygiene) is staying indoors as it’s an effective way to contain the virus.
Thankfully, most people have heeded the words of the world leaders and are staying indoors. People are only leaving the house when it is absolutely essential, whether it be shopping for supplies, caring for a loved one or to get some form of exercise, away from people.
However, there are still many that are not taking the situation seriously, and we’re still seeing hundreds, sometimes thousands of people clambering in one area whether it be parks, train stations or supermarkets. In most countries, police have the power to disburse individuals and groups and even issue fines if needs be.
There are a number of reasons why a person would have to leave the house, as stated above, but Pokémon Go is now – and should not be -one of them. Which leads me on to the story regarding a 77-year-old Spanish man (in one of the world’s most effected countries by the way) who has been arrested for hunting Pokémon in the streets of Madrid while the country is on a strict lockdown.
Sadly, this man is not alone, because it has been reported that thousands of people have been known to ignore the lockdown, with hundreds of fines already being issued in Madrid.
Policía Municipal de Madrid tweeted about the Pokemon Go arrest, writing: “Hunting #Pokemon, dinosaurs or any other magical creature is PROHIBITED during the Alarm State. Don’t make excuses and #StayatHome #SocialResponsibility #COVID19.”
It doesn’t matter whether you’re young, middle-aged or a pensioner, I can understand the mentality of being defiant and not allowing this virus to get the better of us. However, going outside – whether it’s playing Pokemon Go or gathering in groups – is certainly not the way to beat it. If anything, that mentality is how it will beat us. The sooner we all take this virus seriously, the sooner we can beat it and get our lives back to normal.
It really is a scary time, but in truth, in this modern age of technology, it’s never been easier to stay indoors. We can game, shop, watch movies and TV, chat on the phone or even video chat, and if a pensioner understands and has access to Pokemon Go, the chances are that they can also do some of these activities in the comfort of their own home. So please, be responsible, stay at home and stay safe.
Featured Image Credit: Niantic