Mandatory face masks are no longer required in the Region of Murcia from Thursday

The decision follows a continued fall in respiratory infections across the Region in recent weeks

Face masks will no longer be required in hospitals and health centres across the Region of Murcia from Thursday January 29, as the levels of respiratory infections continue to fall.

The regional Health Department has confirmed that the change applies to public and private hospitals, health centres, mental health services, local clinics and primary care emergency services. The change comes as levels of flu, Covid-19 and other respiratory illnesses remain low.

The latest health report shows that overall cases have fallen by 7.6% in the past week. Flu cases have dropped sharply, down by just over 40%, while Covid-19 cases have fallen by almost 17%. Cases of bronchitis and bronchiolitis are also continuing to decline.

Regional Health Minister Juan José Pedreño said that decisions on mask use have always been based on expert advice, with a focus on protecting people most at risk. He reminded the public that while masks are no longer compulsory, they are still recommended for anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms, and when visiting vulnerable people such as older patients, children or those with weakened immune systems.

He also thanked everyone for their cooperation while the measure was in place.

Health officials have also stressed that these infections are mainly spread through close contact with infected people, airborne droplets, or by touching contaminated surfaces. For this reason, regular handwashing remains strongly recommended.

The mandatory use of face masks in healthcare settings was introduced on December 9 in response to rising infection levels. It was then extended until January 28 but has now been lifted.

Image 1: Archive
Image 2: CARM