Brits face new rules in Spain if they test positive for Covid while on holiday

Tighter rules have been announced for tourists arriving in or holidaying in Spain who develop symptoms or test positive for Covid, as tourist resorts face a new upswing in virus infections. According to the new rules, that are published on the Gov.uk website, tourists who get Covid or start developing symptoms whilst in Spain must wear a face mask, reduce social interactions, and avoid crowded places and events for 10 days.

There are NO self-isolation recommendations in place, but these extra precautionary measures for 10 days from diagnosis, or from when symptoms began, mean that direct contacts must be informed and contact with high-risk people must be avoided, which includes people with health conditions, pregnant women and the elderly.

Public health measures may vary between regions, but the use of face masks remains mandatory on public transport, in chemists, hospitals, and healthcare centres is obligatory in all regions of Spain including the islands.

This means that you may not need a mask on the plane, you don’t need one in the airport, but you will in a taxi or coach going to your accommodation.

Lateral flow tests are readily available at all pharmacies in Spain and the Canary Islands, for a fixed price of 2.94 euros (not for free as being reported elsewhere), and should you test positive or your symptoms worsen, the pharmacy staff will advise of what the protocols are.

Entry requirements for Spain, including the Canary Islands, remain the same after being extended until September 15th: proof of vaccination, a negative Covid test (PCR or antigen), or proof of recovery in the last six months. These requirements do not apply to children under 12.

For full information regarding travel advice to Spain, visit the British Government website here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/coronavirus