Health officials urge mask use at first flu symptoms to prevent spread

The Canary Islands Health Ministry reminds citizens to wear masks, improve ventilation, and wash hands as preventive measures after detecting a flu incidence of 150 cases per 100,000 inhabitants (moderate risk) in the first half of December.

The Health Department of the Government of the Canary Islands has called on anyone showing flu‑like symptoms to wear a surgical mask in order to curb the spread of respiratory viruses, especially during family gatherings and in enclosed spaces, according to an official statement.

Public Health officials recommend that individuals who experience any of the following symptoms use a mask:

• Cough
• Fever
• General malaise
• Sore throat
• Nasal congestion or discharge

“Mask use should be combined with increased ventilation, regular hand hygiene, and avoiding close contact with vulnerable people,” the department emphasized.

The recommendation also applies within healthcare settings, covering staff, patients, and companions in high‑risk areas such as chemotherapy rooms, transplant units, emergency departments, and intensive care units.

+15 % Vaccinations in 2025

The seasonal flu vaccination campaign has recorded a 14.94 % increase compared with the same period in 2024. A total of 246,194 people have been vaccinated across the Canary Islands, with 11,612 doses administered in the last week, representing a 40.5 % year‑on‑year rise (source: Directorate General of Public Health).

151 Cases per 100,000 Inhabitants

The latest acute respiratory infection surveillance report for the week of 8–14 December shows a flu incidence of 151.4 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, placing the region in scenario 1 (moderate risk) with a rising trend toward scenario 2.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Contagion

Public Health stresses the importance of simple, effective actions:

• Increase ventilation in indoor spaces.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol‑based sanitizer.
• Wear a mask whenever you exhibit flu‑like symptoms.

By adhering to these guidelines, residents can help limit the spread of influenza and protect vulnerable members of the community.