Catalonia to close all brothels over Covid-19 concerns

The Catalan government has announced plans to close all brothels over concerns that prostitution could contribute to coronavirus outbreaks after weeks of high contagion rates.

The decision came following a petition by Spain’s minister for equality, Irene Montero, who sent a letter to all regional governments asking to take exceptional measures against prostitution businesses.

Catalonia’s health authorities also announced a string of new measures for the southern town of Reus, near Tarragona, such as a ban on gatherings of more than 10 people.

The government is also limiting the capacity of indoor and outdoor spaces: 50% for interior and exterior of bars, 50% for cultural and sporting events, and 33% for ceremonies and religious sermons.