The exponentially rising corona figures in Spain are forcing regional authorities to take measures quickly. In several regions, nightlife is closed or restricted. However, some governments are urging the Spanish government to take action at the national level.
The extremely rapid rise of corona figures in Spain is ringing alarm bells. This is caused by the more contagious delta variant of Covid-19 among mainly young people. Today, the corona incidence in Spain rose to an average of 225.4 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Whereas, just over a week ago, this figure was below 100 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.
Infections among people in their twenties and teenagers extremely high
The number of infections among Spaniards between 20 and 29 years is the highest. This equates to 717.5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Furthermore, this group is closely followed by young people between the ages of 12 and 19. This is at a rate of 652.6 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.
Should Spanish government intervene at national level?
The government previously intervened at a national level by introducing a lockdown. However, the government has left these choices to the regional authorities of the autonomous communities for the time being.
The Spanish Prime Minister said that all scenarios should be discussed with the regional authorities. But that the most important thing at the moment is to continue vaccinating as quickly as possible. The Interterritorial Health Council will meet on Wednesday due to the worrying developments.
Catalonia closes indoor nightlife venues
In the meantime, Catalonia has already chosen to take measures against the increasing infections. The indoor areas of clubs and discotheques within the nightlife will be closed from Friday. Whereas, outdoor areas such as terraces of restaurants and bars will remain open until 3am for the time being.
Furthermore, at all events with more than 500 people, guests must provide proof of vaccination or a negative test. This must be no more than 12 hours old. Currently, the Generalitat says these measures will be in effect for the next 15 days. The main reason is because the number of hospital admissions in the region has increased by 33% in recent days.
Cantabria and Navarre also limit nightlife
It was previously announced that Cantabria has also taken measures. Nightlife in sixteen municipalities, including Santander, is closed. In Navarre, cafes, clubs and discotheques will be closed from 7 to 21 July.
Spanish regional authorities want to intervene, the government of Spain
Some regional governments, including Castile and León, would like to see the Spanish government reintroduce national restrictions. These would include nationwide closure of nightlife or reintroduction of curfews. According to the Spanish newspaper El Periódico, experts also believe the Spanish government should intervene at a national level.
