Pandemic-era restrictions return to Europe as deadly virus cases surge

Under the upcoming guidelines, masks will be mandatory for patients, visitors and staff in hospitals, primary-care centres and residential care facilities

• Spain is preparing to reintroduce mask requirements in hospitals and other medical facilities as the country faces a sharp rise in flu cases ahead of winter.
• The Ministry of Health has issued a nationwide warning and is working on a coordinated plan with regional governments to curb infections and protect vulnerable groups.
• The return of masks marks the most significant reinstatement of a pandemic-era measure since COVID-19 restrictions were lifted.
• Officials emphasise that the move is preventative, and is aimed at easing pressure on hospitals already dealing with COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses.
• Several regions, including Aragón and Andalucía, have already begun advising or requiring mask use in hospitals and care homes.
• The Health Ministry now plans to introduce a unified protocol across all 17 autonomous communities.
• Although the rules will be standardised, regions will be able to adjust measures based on local infection rates, hospital occupancy and flu incidence.
• READ THE FULL STORY HERE: Entire European country brings back pandemic-era restriction as deadly virus cases surge

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