New mask mandates in Spain

This year’s flu shot isn’t well matched to the viruses circulating; some years the match is better than others. As a result, public health is expecting a difficult influenza season and evidently Spain is already experiencing it.

Yes, it seems to be recent mutation of the H3N2 version which is nastier, and worse for older people.

"H3N2 influenza has historically caused more hospitalizations and deaths in older people than other strains."

https://thehill.com/homenews/nexstar_media_wire/5622225-new-type-of-flu-emerges-what-to-know-about-the-new-k-variant-of-influenza-a/

[snip]
(NEXSTAR) – As we get deeper into flu season, a new type of the influenza virus has been identified, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirms.

The new strain is a variation of influenza A. Technically, it’s called the K subclade of influenza A’s H3N2 subtype, and it makes up a majority of the H3N2 cases we’re seeing right now.

H3N2 influenza has historically caused more hospitalizations and deaths in older people than other strains. Experts warn it could be an especially brutal flu season this winter, especially if vaccination rates remain low.

In fact, the Spanish Government has just announced that the masks will only be obligatory in public health centers if the flu reaches level 2 or level 3, which will be decided by region. We are not yet even close to those levels.

I believe Andalucia has already started.