Cadiz Beach Closed As Life Guards Tests Covid Positive

Two tourist beaches in southern Spain have been forced to ban swimming in the sea after a lifeguard tested positive for COVID-19.

The Zahora and Canos de Meca beaches in the province of Cadiz in the southern Spanish region of Andalusia were closed to swimmers while all lifeguards have been told to self-isolate to prevent the spread of the virus, according to a press statement by the municipality of Barbate.

After the lifeguard, who was stationed at the Playa de Zahora (Zahora Beach), tested positive for the virus, the authorities issued the swimming ban on 6th September.

The municipality said the closure was necessary due to the lack of personnel on the beaches, and have displayed red flags to inform visitors that swimming is currently prohibited.

The authorities have asked local residents and visitors to cooperate and not expose themselves to unnecessary risks by entering the sea when there are no lifeguards on duty.

The authorities also emphasised that only swimming has been banned and that the beaches otherwise remain open until new personnel can cover the quarantined lifeguards’ medical leave.

The local authorities also asked residents to voluntarily self-isolate at home and only do “what is absolutely necessary” to prevent the spread of the virus.

Public parks and children’s leisure areas have also been closed.

In addition, the authorities in Barbate have asked the Ministry of Education to postpone the start of the school year until 28th September.

Vulnerable people aged over 60 have been told go outside between the hours of 9am and 11am and later between 7pm and 9pm, while children should avoid all contact with elderly residents