ARCHIVED - Pandemic restrictions in Murcia after the end of the state of emergency

No curfew or travel ban but certain measures remain in place in Murcia

As of Sunday morning Spain is no longer in a national state of emergency following the end of the 6-month period stipulated by the national government in November 2020, and as a result various of the restrictions on travel and socializing have now been lifted or relaxed.

The regional government of Murcia appeared reluctant to ease the restrictions which have proved effective in curbing the spread of Covid-19 since the winter, but due to the uncertainty over what lies within its powers in terms of enforcing anti-pandemic measures it has been decided to give way and embrace the policy of de-escalation to a certain extent. Among the key points of the situation as of Sunday 10^th May are the following:

Night-time curfew: the curfew is no longer in force, although in the Region of Murcia all non-essential establishments must be closed between midnight and 6.00 in the morning. This affects bars, restaurants and other leisure activities, although all-night service may be offered at petrol stations and pharmacies.

Inter-regional travel: it is now permitted to travel into and out of the Region of Murcia for any purpose, rather than only for essential reasons.

Socializing in bars and restaurants: A maximum of six people from different households may be seated at tables both indoors and on outdoor terraces.

Other social gatherings: Up to six people from different households may meet in public or on private property, pending approval of the restriction by the regional High Court of Justice.

At events such as weddings, baptisms and communions the limit is set at 100 people outdoors or 50 in indoor venues.

Facemasks: the wearing of facemasks in public is still obligatory, as decreed by the national government, except while lying on the beach or bathing. Masks must be worn while walking along the beach.

Smoking on bar terraces: this is another area covered by a nationwide decree, and smoking is permitted only away from bar and restaurant terraces and while maintaining social distancing of 2 metres.

Car passengers: when people from different households travel in the same private vehicle the number of passengers is restricted to half of capacity.

Local restrictions: the regional government of Murcia retains the right to tighten restrictions in municipalities where the Covid-19 incidence rate rises alarmingly. This will be the case at 14-day rates of over 250 cases per 100,000 inhabitants and when rates rise by 80 per cent in just one week.