Responding to a sharp rise in respiratory illnesses, hospitals in Málaga, Spain have begun reinstating mandatory mask policies for all individuals within healthcare facilities. The move, implemented at both the Hospital Regional Universitario and the Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, comes as the province battles a fourfold increase in acute respiratory infections, including a newly identified and vaccine-resistant influenza variant, dubbed “K”. Hospital officials cite the need to protect vulnerable patients and healthcare workers amid growing concerns about potential hospital strain.
José Antonio Sau
Málaga
Montag, 15. Dezember 2025
Hospitals in Málaga, Spain, have reinstated mandatory mask-wearing in response to a surge in respiratory infections, including influenza. The decision, implemented at the Hospital Regional Universitario and the Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, aims to protect both patients and healthcare workers during a particularly active season for respiratory illnesses. This move highlights the continued importance of preventative measures in healthcare settings to mitigate the spread of infection.
The Hospital Regional Universitario encompasses the General Hospital, Hospital Civil, Materno Infantil Hospital, and the CARE José Estrada center. The Hospital Clínico network includes the Hospital Marítimo in Torremolinos, the Hospital Valle del Guadalhorce in Cártama, and the Hospital de Alta Resolución in Benalmádena.
According to a notice published on the Hospital Regional Universitario’s website, the mask mandate aligns with guidelines from the regional Ministry of Health, Presidency, and Emergencies, and its 2025-26 action plan. The requirement applies to all medical and non-medical personnel, as well as patients, visitors, and service providers in care and common areas, including outpatient clinics, emergency departments, waiting rooms, hospital wards, hallways, and elevators.
The mandate went into effect December 15, 2025, and will remain in place until January 8, 2026, subject to review based on epidemiological trends. Hospital officials stated the measure is intended to safeguard patients and healthcare professionals.
Sources at the Hospital Clínico reported the measure was implemented as early as Saturday, December 14, 2025, due to a fourfold increase in acute respiratory infections in Málaga over the past two weeks. This surge includes a new variant of influenza, dubbed the “K” variant, which is reportedly more contagious and exhibits increased resistance to vaccines. Coronavirus infections, common colds, and other upper respiratory illnesses are also contributing to the rise in cases, according to those sources.
The current wave of respiratory illnesses is particularly concerning for patients with chronic conditions, including heart, lung, respiratory, and oncohematological diseases. Hospitalizations due to acute respiratory infections are already increasing at hospitals throughout the province.
