Covid: Infection rate in Spain lowest since August

Vaccination rollout key to controlling disease

THE incidence of Covid-19 in Spain has fallen to its lowest levels for 10 months as the 14-day cumulative number of cases drops under 100 per 100,000 people.

The latest statistics reveal the contagion now stands at just over 98 per 100,000 – the first time it has dipped below 100 since August 12 last year just as the second wave of the pandemic struck.

The fourth wave of the disease peaked on April 25, when health experts said the number reached 235 per 100,000. Ever since, coronavirus has been on the retreat despite the easing of restrictions and the end of the state of emergency.

Key to the success of the battle against Covid-19 has been the vaccination DRIVE. Almost the entire population aged over 70 – which accounted for eight in 10 deaths – is fully protected. The over-60s are on the way to being fully jabbed, a delay because they received AstraZeneca and there is a 12-week gap between doses; and almost half of 50 to 59-year-olds have received both jabs.

It means coronavirus now spreads mainly between younger age groups, which is preventing a swifter fall in infection levels. At the same time the seriousness of the disease and mortality rates are much lower in younger people.