The mask becomes compulsory again in all health establishments in Spain, but also in France in certain hospitals such as Roanne, La Rochelle, Belfort, Strasbourg or Arcachon… The list of places where it must be worn in 2024.
In Spainthe mask is again obligatory in hospitals and healthcare facilities, announced on January 8, 2024 by the Spanish Ministry of Health, after several days of discussion. Pharmacies are not currently affected by this obligation. In Francethe mask is also compulsory in certain health establishments, in particular: for health professionals at the hospital of Roanne (for visitors it is highly recommended), the welcoming services of the public at the Nord Franche-Comté Hospital in Trévenans, in the Territoire de Belfortthe university hospitals of Strasbourg, Arcachon hospital, La Rochelle hospital center or the municipal medical health center of the city of Perpignan. In general, the mask must become a reflex “as soon as we have a symptom or as soon as we are in contact with vulnerable people” to avoid the resumption of the epidemic. Especially since he “it is likely that there will be an increase because this increase is directly linked to the fact that climatic conditions favor the circulation of the virus“, argues virologist Bruno Lina, member of Covars.
Mask compulsory everywhere in France? “For the moment, we are not there yet”
THE postage due mask is no longer compulsory in France since August 1, 2022 but the head of a health establishment or a medico-social service may decide to make it compulsory according to theorder published in the Official Journal in July 2022. Faced with the increase in Covid cases this winter, the question of making it compulsory again is being discussed again. “He will be considered if we returned to an intensive epidemic phasebut for now we are not there“replied Brigitte Autran in Libération last August.
Where is the mask recommended in 2024?
Wearing a mask is no longer compulsory in France (except in certain hospitals which require it) but recommended in certain situations:
- in enclosed and promiscuous places and on public transport (metro, train, bus, plane, etc.);
- in large gatherings, including outdoors, for people who are fragile due to their age or pathologies;
- in the presence of elderly people, immunocompromised people or people suffering from chronic illnesses;
- for vulnerable people (elderly or immunocompromised people, etc.).
- in hospitals and for the elderly.
- in the event of symptoms and up to 7 days in the event of contact status at risk or leaving isolation.
In which hospitals are masks compulsory?
If the mask is no longer compulsory by default throughout the territory, Heads of establishments can impose it from the age of 6 in the following establishments:
- Hospitals, clinics, health centers
- Offices of medical professionals and psychologists, osteopaths, chiropractors and psychotherapists
- Pharmacy dispensaries
- Medical analysis laboratories
- Ehpad: Accommodation establishment for dependent elderly people
- Homes of elderly or disabled people who receive care (the obligation may be imposed by the employer of the professional who carries out interventions at home).
In France, several health establishments have made wearing a mask compulsory again. On October 17, 2023, the hospital of Trévenans, located in the Territoire de Belfort, has decided to once again make wearing a mask compulsory in its establishments. On September 25, 2023, the university hospitals of Strasbourg once again recommend wearing masks in their establishments for patients and their staff. On September 22, 2023, the City of Perpignan made the port of mask required at the municipal medical health center, 5 rue de la Fusterie reports the City Hall. Since September 20, 2023, the mask is again compulsory at La Rochelle hospital center for healthcare professionals, patients and visitors. Since August 11, 2023, the mask is also compulsory at Arcachon hospital in the establishment and there is a limitation on room visits “due to the increase in the number of Covid cases among staff of the establishment and some patients” can we read on his page Facebook.
Is a mask compulsory on transport? Planes?
Wearing a mask is no longer compulsory but remains recommended in enclosed and promiscuous places and public transport (metro, train, bus, plane, etc.), reportsth government. On planes, some companies may make masks compulsory on board. On his website, AirFrance indicates that wearing a mask (without valve) is strongly recommended on board their planes from the age of 6. It may be mandatory on board or at the airport depending on your country of departure and destination.
Is a mask obligatory at the doctor’s office? The dentist ?
No, since August 1, 2022, the mask is no longer compulsory in medical offices and at the doctor’s office. On the other hand, the head of the medical office has the right to continue to impose the wearing of a mask for people aged 6 and over.
From what age is the mask compulsory?
When it is compulsory, wearing a mask must be worn from the age of 6.
What is the fine if you don’t wear a mask?
Not wearing a mask in a place where it is compulsory can be punished with a 4th class fine which is defined by a fixed fine of 135 euros. But the amount of the fine varies depending on the city. Its amount is indicated when the prefectural decree is published.