The surge in respiratory virus cases across Europe has led several countries to implement additional measures to curb the spread. In response to rising cases of both coronavirus and flu, France has urged the public to wear masks in crowded spaces, while Italy has reported a peak in infection rates.
Starting January 9, Spain’s Health Ministry has reinstated the mandatory use of face masks in hospitals and healthcare centers. Despite opposition from most autonomous regions, the new coalition government is enforcing this measure, as six regions had already implemented it due to the increasing pressure on Spain’s hospitals caused by a spike in flu, Covid-19, and other respiratory illnesses.
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The health minister, Monica Garcia, explained that the decision to make masks obligatory was necessary for entering and leaving health centers. Spain, among the last European countries to relax mask requirements post-pandemic, had kept them mandatory on public transport until February 2023 and in health centers and pharmacies until July. The updated rules also extend to the Canary Islands, encompassing popular tourist destinations such as Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has recommended that people stay home if feeling unwell, consider mask-wearing in crowds or healthcare settings, and follow national vaccination guidelines. Flu is currently circulating at higher levels than other respiratory pathogens, including the Sars-CoV-2 virus responsible for COVID-19.
In Italy, a record high in flu-like illnesses, encompassing both flu and COVID-19, was reported in the last two weeks of 2023. This surpasses infection rates during the pandemic and is attributed to reduced mask-wearing and vaccination rates. Italy has not indicated any intention to reintroduce mask mandates.
Portugal’s Health Minister, Manuel Pizarro, acknowledged a “flu epidemic” in the country but stated that there is currently no widespread recommendation for mask use. The situation across Europe reflects varying approaches to address the increasing challenges posed by respiratory viruses.