Masks return in Spain following surge in respiratory diseases

Spain’s Health Ministry announced that due to an increase in respiratory illnesses, face masks will be required in Spanish hospitals and healthcare facilities as of this Wednesday. The majority of Spain’s 17 autonomous regions are against the policy, but the new leftist minority coalition government is pushing it through. Health Minister Mónica García said late Monday on Cadena Ser radio, “We are talking about putting on a mask when you enter a health center and taking it off when you leave.” “I don’t see any drama in it. It is a fundamental and easy-to-understand first-order measure,” she continued. Spain’s hospitals have been under tremendous strain lately due to an increase in COVID-19, flu, and other respiratory cases. García’s ministry decided to impose the measure after failing to reach an agreement with regional health authorities, many of whom argued that mask use should be recommended but not obligatory. Regional governments are in charge of healthcare although the central government can intervene if it deems it necessary. Six regions have already introduced the measure and masks have been commonly used on streets and public transport and in health centers in recent months. Spain declared a formal end to the health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic last July, saying people no longer needed to wear masks in health and care centers and pharmacies. Over the previous two years, Spain had gradually ended mandatory mask wearing, first in public and then on public transport. The country registered more than 14 million cases and some 120,000 deaths from the coronavirus. (with inputs from The Associated Press)