Mask Mandate Partially Reinstated in Spain Due to COVID-19 and Flu Surges

After an increase in the number of flu and COVID-19 cases during the holiday season, five regions in Spain have reinstated rules requiring the wearing of protective masks in medical facilities, as reported by Reuters.

Among these regions is Valencia, where the respiratory infection rate reached 1501 cases per 100,000 inhabitants from December 26 to January 1. In this regard, the region only trails behind Castilla-La Mancha. Health authorities in Valencia emphasize the need to wear masks for individuals with respiratory symptoms and for healthcare workers.

Neighbouring Catalonia has also mandated the use of masks in medical centres. The government of Aragon, located in the north of the country, has issued similar instructions, additionally recommending that citizens wear masks in all public places, especially in enclosed spaces. In Murcia on the southeast coast of Spain, a requirement for mandatory mask-wearing in medical facilities has also been introduced. Meanwhile, in Galicia in the northwest of the country, authorities have opted for a corresponding recommendation.

It is noteworthy that Spain was one of the last European countries to lift restrictions after the COVID-19 pandemic: mask mandates in public transport persisted until February of the previous year, and in medical centres and pharmacies until July.

However, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends reinstating some quarantine measures due to the increased incidence of COVID-19. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus conveyed this message, stating, "Respiratory illnesses caused by COVID-19, the flu, and other pathogens are increasing in many countries over the course of several weeks, and this is expected to continue after the holidays."

The head of the World Health Organization advises using protective masks, maintaining social distancing, and regularly ventilating indoor spaces. He also emphasizes the importance of vaccination against COVID-19 and the flu. In addressing governments, the WHO chief urges ensuring access to reliable tests, effective treatment methods, and vaccines, especially for those in high-risk groups. Additionally, the WHO calls for continued surveillance and reporting tracking the evolution of the coronavirus and to keep the population informed.