Mandatory use of masks in health centres

 

From Wednesday, December 10, it is mandatory to wear a mask in health centers and services, as well as in nursing homes and centers for people with disabilities, as established in Resolution SLT / 4584 / 2025, of December 9, approved by the Government. This decision is made because of the very notable increase in acute respiratory infections in Catalonia and has a validity of 15 calendar days from the date of publication in the DOGC.

 

 

Masks, together with frequent hand washing and distance between people, are one of the effective protection measures to be used whenever we have symptoms of influenza, COVID-19 or any respiratory disease.

Masks have two basic functions:

  • Protect other people from the pathogens we exhale when breathing and our saliva.
  • Protect our nose and mouth from contamination of possible viruses and bacteria that can exhale other people.

 

Where is it mandatory to wear a mask?

From the publication of the Resolution in the Official Journal of the Generalitat de Catalunya (DOGC), people from 6 years old will be obliged to wear a mask when they are at:

  • Primary Care Centres (CAP)
  • Hospital care centres
  • Intermediate care centers
  • Mental health care centres
  • Residences for the elderly
  • Residential centers for people with disabilities


The measure affects workers, patients and visitors.

Inpatients will not have to wear a mask when they are inside their room.



Who is exempt from wearing a mask?

The mask will not be required in the following cases:

  • People with respiratory diseases or difficulties that may be aggravated by the use of a mask.
  • People who, due to their disability or dependence, cannot remove it autonomously.
  • Situations in which the mask is incompatible with the nature of the activity (according to health criteria).



How should the mask be worn?

The Resolution recalls that the use must be adequate:

  • You need to use a mask of your size to fit your face well.
  • You need to wash your hands before putting it on and after adjusting it.
  • You have to adjust it well to ensure that air does not enter and, consequently, that it does not come out either.
  • You need to pinch the nostril so it doesn't fall.
  • If you have to save it for a moment to eat or drink, do it inside a cloth or paper bag.



For more information, you can consult the Canal Salut page.