An official flu epidemic has been declared in Spain, causing serious concern among healthcare professionals. The virus has hit the youngest children the hardest: the number of cases among children aged one to four has doubled over the past week. Authorities are responding to the rapid surge in infections by introducing new safety measures in medical facilities.
The Ministry of Health has announced the reinstatement of mandatory mask-wearing in hospitals and other healthcare facilities during periods of high risk. This move aims to protect patients, medical staff, and the general public from further spread of the virus. Now, anyone coming to a hospital with cold symptoms will be required to wear a mask to avoid putting others at risk.
Safety Measures and New Rules
Depending on the epidemiological situation in each region, masks may be recommended or mandatory. In times of maximum risk, wearing them becomes strictly required for all visitors and staff in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. Some autonomous communities, such as Aragón, have already put these rules into practice.
The Minister of Health emphasizes that these measures will help prevent the healthcare system from becoming overwhelmed, a challenge it faces every winter as patient numbers rise. Authorities are convinced that the sooner restrictions are enacted, the fewer hospitalizations and severe cases will occur.
Key features of this season
This flu season started earlier than usual and has been more intense. In addition to flu, other respiratory viruses, including coronavirus and respiratory syncytial virus, are circulating in the country, further complicating the situation. Medical professionals note that hospitals are not always prepared for a sharp increase in patients and urge the public to follow precautionary measures.
Authorities remind everyone: a simple act—wearing a mask when visiting medical facilities—can significantly reduce the risk of infection for all. This is especially important for protecting vulnerable groups such as the elderly and young children, who are at higher risk of severe illness.
Regional responses and next steps
A final decision on a unified protocol will be made at the Public Health Commission meeting in the coming days. The document provides for a flexible approach: regions will be able to set their own threat levels and appropriate measures. At the same time, the ministry insists on the need for a unified national strategy to avoid repeating last year’s mistakes, when disagreements between regions hindered an effective epidemic response.
A further increase in the number of cases is expected in the coming weeks, so authorities are urging citizens to act responsibly and, at the first signs of illness, stay home or use personal protective equipment. Only joint efforts will help prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed and protect public health.
