The Junta de Andalucia has issued a public warning as flu infections continue to surge across the region just days before Christmas.
Health officials are urging families to take extra care around children and older people ahead of the millions of hugs and kisses expected between loved ones over the coming days.
According to the regional government, flu incidence has doubled in just one week, rising from 38.1 cases per 100,000 inhabitants to 79 cases per 100,000.
Regional health minister Antonio Sanz branded the figures ‘concerning’ and called for heightened responsibility during a period marked by family meals and close contact.
‘We are at a peak moment,’ Sanz said, adding that Christmas and New Year gatherings could push infection rates even higher. Children and the elderly, he stressed, remain the most vulnerable.
The regional health department is already recommending the use of face masks in healthcare and hospital settings, with mask-wearing now compulsory in some centres.
Sanz said the public has ‘a huge opportunity to protect ourselves and our loved ones’ by taking simple precautions.
He also noted that the flu virus has arrived earlier than usual this year, which experts believe could also mean the wave ends sooner than in previous winters.
Despite the sharp rise in cases, the regional government remains cautiously optimistic. Andalucia has significantly increased vaccination coverage compared with previous years, with 1.86 million people vaccinated against flu and 763,899 against Covid-19 so far.
Coverage among infants stands at 94.6%, according to official figures.
Health authorities have mobilised healthcare professionals, professional bodies, patient groups and organisations representing older people, while expanding vaccination points beyond health centres to shopping centres, markets and public spaces.
Health officials believe the risk could start to ease from January, but are urging caution over the festive period to prevent further pressure on hospitals and primary care services.
