Spain imposes negative PCR test result at French border

Spain must require a negative PCR test done within 72 hours for anyone crossing the land border from France, becoming the second neighbor to tighten restrictions at the French border last week after Germany.

The measure, which takes effect on Tuesday and affects anyone aged 7 and over, comes as Spain steps up Covid restrictions in hopes it can prevent an increase in the number of cases during Holy Week, which starts this weekend.

This is the first time that such a requirement has been imposed by Spain on those crossing the land border. Until now, it was only required for arrivals by air.

“They must have a PCR test (RT-PCR), TMA test or other type of diagnostic test for SARS-CoV-2 based on equivalent molecular techniques, with a negative result, performed within 72 hours of the test. arrival, “the bulletin said.

Only transport workers and border workers will be exempt, as well as those who live in the border area as long as they stay within a radius of 30 kilometers from their home.

Such a requirement has already been in place since January 31 for those entering France by air, land or sea, who must present a negative test. The rule applies from 11 years old.

Until mid-March, the number of infections fell steadily in Spain but started to climb again, with government figures showing 7,586 new cases in 24 hours on Friday, bringing the total to 3,255,324 and more than 75,000 deaths.

In France, however, daily cases have nearly doubled since the start of the month, reaching more than 45,000 on Thursday, bringing the overall number to around 4,466,000 with more than 93,000 deaths.

Bars, restaurants invite

With its bars and restaurants open and the 11pm curfew, Madrid has become a popular destination for leisure-seeking Europeans, especially those in France.

But the reality angered the Spaniards, who were subjected for months to strict internal travel restrictions, preventing them from leaving their own areas.

The ban particularly disrupted Holy Week, an extremely popular holiday when people travel regularly to see their families.

(AFP)