Spain Sees Highest Surge In Coronavirus Cases Since May 10

While Spain continues to witness a steep surge in the COVID-19 cases, Thursday broke all previous records – 580 new cases, with a majority of the infections sprouting from the regions of Aragon and Catalonia. The number of infections has reportedly hit the highest since May 10.

While incisive details weren’t divulged, health officials maintained that due measures would be implemented in Barcelona to combat the contagion; whereas authorities in some areas of Catalonia suggested re-imposing stringent restrictions including home confinement. Three of the neighboring suburbs in Barcelona have already been imposed restrictions.

The lifting of the nationwide lockdown was met with over 170 localized outbreaks across Spain – with Catalonia at the epicenter of the outbreak. This month has been particularly challenging for Catalonia, as the popular touristy city saw a triple surge in the number of cases from the week before.

The Catalan health community pointed out to a rather distressing rise, as the cases tested positive soared to 1, 293 overnight.

World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Thursday, paid homage to the number of lives lost due to the COVID-19 outbreak, while lauding the efforts of the frontline workers and the government in the battle against the virus.

“It is with great respect that I join the King of Spain, the Prime Minister, and the entire government of the country to pay tribute to the people who have fallen victim to COVID-19,” said Dr. Ghebreyesus. “I extend my deepest condolences to the families of all people who have lost their lives due to this virus in Spain, and around the world,” he added.

The healthcare chief also advised for the Spanish authorities to remain vigilant amid the global health crisis. While there’s still a long way to go in terms of flattening the curve, Ghebreyesus maintained that proactive measures by the government in the form of lockdowns, physical distancing, and other critical measures have greatly helped to change the course of the country’s outbreak.

“Spain has shown that with political leadership and action, backed by community support, that COVID-19 can be controlled, no matter at what stage virus transmission is at in a country. From being greatly challenged, Spain has reversed the trajectory of the outbreak,” he added in a report by the World Health Organization.