Covid: Valencia moves towards ‘new normal’

Region nears lowest risk level

THE incidence of coronavirus infection across the Valencia region has fallen below 30 cases per 100,000 people despite health restrictions being eased.

On Monday evening, the cumulative rate for the region, which includes the Costa Blanca, was measured at 29.84 – the figure seen as a litmus paper test in the battle against Covid-19.

The figure was announced after the first weekend of curfew being kicked back to midnight and the hospitality sector staying open to 11.30 at night.

The minimum risk level is 25 per 100,000 and is known as thew new normal. Valencia continues to have the lowest levels of infection in Spain.

However, Valencia’s health minister Ana Barceló has warned “we cannot lower our guard” and appealed for people to continue to be “prudent”.

She said: “The relaxing of the nightly curfew and the extension of hours for hospitality should not suppose – even for a minute – a relaxation for citizens in the fight against the virus.”

The government in Valencia is expected to meet on Thursday to announce any changes in restrictions from next Monday.