THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala faced COVID-19 more effectively than Europe. It's safer here. But, I must return to Italy-these are the words of Roberto Toneso, an Italian citizen who was cured of COVID-19 after contracting the virus. After expressing his gratitude towards the health workers in Kerala, Roberto spoke with health minister KK Shailaja over a phone call.

Roberto was tested positive for coronavirus on March 13 following an inspection in Varkala. He was given a send-off from the general hospital in the presence of minister Kadakampalli Surendran. He will reach Bengaluru on-road and from there he'll fly to Italy.

During his time in Varkala, Roberto came in contact with many people and even participated in a temple festival and DJ parties. As he only spoke Italian, initially it was difficult to prepare a contact list. Later, with the help of a translator, a contact list of 126 persons was prepared. However, none contracted the virus from Roberto. He was later tested negative for COVID-19 on March 26. Roberto was under observation for 28 days at Nedumangad taluk hospital and general hospital before being discharged.

"I used to come to Kerala every year to experience the cuisine and nature. This year I came to know about the great health care system. I'll return", Roberto Toneso said.