Catalonia to make face masks compulsory

The Catalan government is to make the use of face masks compulsory.

Spokesperson Meritxell Budó said that the measure, to protect against and prevent the spread of Covid-19, will be applied in "both public and private" spaces, even when the safety distance of 1.5 meters can be guaranteed. "Regardless of safety distances, people will have to wear a mask at all times," she stated.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday following a meeting of the executive, Budó said that the mandatory use of masks will prevent people from letting their guard down with regard to coronavirus.

Earlier on Tuesday, the health minister Alba Vergés raised the prospect of compulsory face masks when speaking to Catalan radio station Rac1. "There is starting to be a lot more movement of people, and to reduce the risks I think it's important to implement this measure."

Civil Protection (Procicat) will meet either today or tomorrow to approve the decision.