Spain has changed its face covering rules, meaning anyone visiting will no longer have to wear face masks indoors. It's the latest easing of Covid-19 restrictions in the country, and could be important for you if you're holidaying there this summer.
Under the new guidance, face masks will no longer be required in airports and in many indoor locations. Masks will still be obligatory in some indoor settings, including for staff in medical centres and nursing homes, reports the MEN.
They are still required to be worn on all forms of public transport, but not in stations or airports. People will be advised to wear them when attending large gatherings, packed areas or when near vulnerable people. Schools are also exempt from having to use them.
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Masks became obligatory in both indoor and outdoor settings in Spain at the start of the pandemic. Outdoor restrictions were lifted in mid-2021 but reimposed between December and February amid a major surge of infections of the highly contagious Omicron variant.
Health minister Carolina Darias said: “The mask without doubt has been one of the most identifiable measures over the past two years and it will no longer be obligatory. They will continue to be with us as an element of protection, particularly for the most vulnerable.”
With more than 92 per cent of Spaniards over 12 years old having received at least two vaccine doses and the number of coronavirus infections and deaths dropping sharply in recent months, Spain has also eliminated mandatory home isolation for people infected with the virus who experience no symptoms or mild ones.
