Face masks no longer compulsory in healthcare centers and nursing homes

Amid the peak of flu cases over the Christmas period, face masks were made compulsory in healthcare centres and nursing homes. 

Yet, as of Wednesday, they are no longer obligatory.

The Department of Health has decided to remove the obligation to wear a mask in healthcare centers, social healthcare centers, and nursing homes.

The decision was made due to the sustained improvement in the epidemiological situation of the flu. Hospital admissions have also reduced significantly since the peak.

Despite the news, authorities still recommend the use of masks for people who are showing flu symptoms, as well as those who work in the fields of healthcare or social care, especially when they have contact with vulnerable people.

The estimated incidence rate of influenza remains above moderate levels, standing at 248 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, corresponding to the week of December 29 to January 4.

In the previous week, cases had dropped from 546 to 236, a significant drop again from the peak of 759 right before the Christmas holidays.

The 2025-26 winter flu season had a peak with an incidence rate much higher than those seen in recent years, while it also came earlier in the year, in mid-December.