Spain holiday update as Brits warned of new rules
BRITS on holiday in Spain are in limbo today as the exact date for the lifting of face masks on public transport remains unclear.
The Spanish government was due to make the decision on February 6, with the new relaxations coming into force today.
But no ruling was made yesterday and it is now expected today and should become effective either on Wednesday or Thursday of this week.
An official notice has to be published by the government in its Official State Gazette.
Until then, holidaymakers and locals should still wear masks on public transport and in other places, such as health centres and chemists.
Spain’s Council of Ministers is reported to be discussing the issue today and will approve the end of the mandatory use of the mask on public transport.
Even after the new rule is confirmed, masks will continue to be mandatory in hospitals and health centres, pharmacies and for visitors and workers in residences and social health centres.
The Government is relaxing the mask rules as Covid cases remain low, despite fears they could rise following the Christmas holidays and opening of the Chinese borders
Several regions have long been demanding the end of face masks, especially on the subway after claiming no one monitors their use.
The transport sector demanded an end to it last September, but experts advised waiting for the winter to pass.
Even so, experts are advising people to be prudent and continue to use the mask in closed environments for anyone who has symptoms of any respiratory infection.
A health spokesperson said: “When we have symptoms we should use it responsibly and if we are at risk or vulnerable groups too.
“We must understand that our health affects that of others in some way, especially when there is an infectious disease involved.”