Regions in Spain Reinstate Mandatory Mask-Wearing Amid Surge in COVID Cases

 

Health authorities in various regions of Spain have reintroduced the mandatory mask-wearing rule following a significant increase in COVID-19 cases. 

Hospitals and health centers are experiencing high levels of saturation, with patients facing long waits for treatment. Family doctors are advocating for compulsory mask use in health facilities nationwide as the winter surge of COVID-19 and flu becomes challenging to manage.

While the Spanish government has not officially announced the return of mandatory mask-wearing, some regions, including Valencia (home to popular tourist destinations Benidorm and Alicante), have independently imposed the rule. Valencia's health department has specifically implemented mandatory mask use in health centers due to the rising incidence of respiratory infections. 

The region has witnessed a rate of 1,501 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, prompting the adoption of preventive measures. The health department also announced the commencement of flu and COVID-19 vaccinations without appointments starting next Monday. 

As of today, wearing masks is obligatory when entering health centers and hospitals throughout the Valencian community. The Ministry of Health initiated the mask protocol in response to the recent spike in flu cases and respiratory infections.