Brits face new Covid rules in Spain if they come down sick while on holiday

SPAIN has issued new rules for Brits who get Covid-19 on holidays this summer.

Tighter rules have been announced for holidaymakers arriving in or travelling around Spain as the tourist hotspot faces a new upswing in virus infections.

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Under the new rules, tourists who get Covid or start developing symptoms whilst in Spain must wear a face mask, reduce social interactions and avoid crowded places and events for 10 days.

While there is currently no self-isolation recommendations in place, direct contacts must be informed and contact with high-risk people must be avoided.

These include people with health conditions, pregnant women and the elderly.

The face mask rule applies whether you test positive or not – it must be worn as soon as symptoms develop.

Public health measures – although relatively relaxed – may vary between regions, but the use of face masks remains mandatory on public transport, in pharmacies and healthcare centres, as well as in care homes across the country.

Lateral flow tests – or pruebas de antigenos – are free-of-charge in pharmacies in Spain.

Should your symptoms worsen, you can call your regional hotline, which will have English-speaking staff to advise you. In any emergency, call 112.

Brits are encouraged to familiarise themselves with any other Covid protocols their hotel, accommodation provider, bars, shops and restaurants may have in place.

Entry requirements for Spain remain the same: proof of vaccination, a negative Covid-19 test (PCR or antigen) or proof of recovery in the last six months.

These requirements do not apply to children under 12.

In May, Spain scrapped Covid-19 rules for unvaccinated Brits ahead of the summer holidays.

At the time, the Spanish Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, María Reyes Maroto said it was “excellent news”.

She said: “This excellent news, highly anticipated by the tourism sector, will make it easier for tourists from outside Europe to visit us this high season, guaranteeing safe mobility.

“Spain is emerging as one of the most desired destinations in the world, as shown by the demand indicators that month after month are approaching pre-pandemic levels.”