Spain decides against reintroducing facemasks unless flu epidemic worsens
Regional government across Spain can, however, mandate masks in healthcare settings if they deem it necessary
With flu cases around the country exploding and numbers of infections shooting past last year’s figures, influenza in Spain has reached epidemic proportions. However, during a meeting on Wednesday December 3, the government decided against mandating masks in healthcare facilities unless the situation worsens.
Instead, they came up with a plan which the leaders of Spain’s autonomous communities have agreed to follow. This plan outlines three key scenarios.
Level 1 corresponds to low to moderate virus transmission, which is where we are right now. Masks and teleworking (if possible) are recommended for anyone with symptoms, and masks are recommended for healthcare workers, patients and their companions in vulnerable settings such as cancer treatment wards or transplant units. It is also recommended that nursing home staff with symptoms be kept away from residents or, if this is not possible, given five days' leave (wearing a mask upon their return until they are symptom-free).
At level 2, the high transmission level, masks are recommended for healthcare workers, patients and their companions in waiting rooms and emergency departments of health centres and hospitals, and all staff in care homes, as well as for residents who are especially vulnerable due to age and illness.
In both cases, the protocol allows for the possibility of mandating mask use in outpatient clinics, hospitals or care homes depending on the specific situation or vulnerability of the locality, region or facility. While not explicitly stated, it can be inferred from the context that the regional authorities or the facility's management may decide on the mandatory use, as appropriate.
In this phase, visits to care homes can also be restricted if deemed necessary.
If level 3, the level of very high (or even pandemic) transmission, is reached, the Ministry of Health and the autonomous communities would meet urgently in the Interterritorial Council to agree on "additional and exceptional" measures.
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