The Spanish government released an official statement that wearing facemasks will be obligatory from tomorrow, Thursday May 21. The use of face masks has been obligatory since May 4 on public transport, but now with the country in Phase 1 of the de-escalation plan and more people going outside, the government has decided to make the use of masks obligatory in public spaces, streets where the social distancing of 2 metres is not possible to maintain, on public transport and in both closed and open spaces that are open to the public (banks, shops, pharmacies, markets, etc.)
This new ‘law’ does come with some exceptions and further rules, so here is what you need to know:
- Everyone over the age of six needs to wear a mask
- The use of masks for children between three and five years of age is recommended
- People with respiratory problems, or those who cannot wear a mask due to particular health conditions or disability are exempt from wearing them
- Another exception for not wearing a mask is in a case when a mask is incompatible with carrying out certain activities (although official sources do not clarify what these activities are)
It is not clear if a police officer can fine those who refuse to wear a facemask, but official sources believe that under the State of Alarm a person can be fined for refusing to comply with the rules, so we would recommend wearing a mask if your health permits. Also, we know from official sources that the central government has set the maximum cost of a surgical mask (the most common one) at €0.96. So, make sure to check the price before buying one.
We hope you are all careful and stay safe, and that soon we will be back to normality and out enjoying out beautiful San Pedro fully again!