Spain Considers Reinstating Mandatory Mask Rules in Healthcare Amid Early Flu Season

New Mask Protocol Under Consideration

Spain's Health Minister, Mónica García, is currently leading efforts to introduce new mask regulations, potentially reinstating mandatory use in healthcare facilities across the country. This comes as Spain experiences an early and intense influenza season, coupled with rising cases of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. A new common protocol for respiratory viruses is anticipated to be approved by the Public Health Commission on December 3, 2025, following consensus reached during the Interterritorial Council of the National Health System.

Rationale Behind the Measures

The proposed measures are a direct response to a significant surge in respiratory infections. Data from the Carlos III Health Institute indicates that Spain has surpassed the epidemic threshold for flu, with 40 cases per 100,000 people recorded in the last week of November 2025. The current flu season has arrived four to seven weeks earlier than in previous years, with the H3N2 virus identified as a contributing factor to potentially decreased immunity. Minister García emphasized that these precautions are crucial to protect vulnerable individuals and healthcare professionals, aiming to prevent the healthcare system from becoming overwhelmed during the winter months.

Scope and Implementation of Rules

The draft protocol outlines a flexible framework with four tiers of risk and three primary precautions. While mask use is currently recommended in hospitals and care homes, it could become mandatory in higher-risk scenarios. Under the proposed rules, mask-wearing would be compulsory for patients, visitors, and staff in hospitals, primary-care centers, and long-term care facilities located in high-risk areas. Nursing homes and units serving immunocompromised patients are particularly prioritized. Although the rules offer flexibility, Minister García stressed that they are not optional, requiring regions to implement necessary measures based on their specific risk levels. Some autonomous communities, such as Aragón and Andalusia, have already begun adopting measures ahead of a national agreement.

Protecting Public Health

The Ministry of Health aims to coordinate with all 17 autonomous communities to ensure a standardized national approach. This coordinated effort seeks to prevent a repeat of severe peaks seen in previous years and to reduce pressure on hospitals. Authorities underscore that early adoption and compliance with these measures are vital for protecting staff and minimizing the risk of transmission in critical healthcare environments.