TEGUCIGALPA (Reuters) -Over five years after the COVID-19 outbreak, Honduras has reinstated mandatory mask wearing in public spaces amid a spike in respiratory illnesses and as a variant of the virus spreads through the Central American country.

Honduras’ health ministry confirmed two deaths from the virus this week, among patients with underlying health conditions, bringing the country’s total in 2025 to six.

“We have already surpassed last year’s infection limit; there are currently five people admitted to Hospital Escuela with suspected COVID-19,” said the head of Health Surveillance, Lorenzo Pavon.

Official data showed that from January to July last year, 596 COVID-19 cases were reported, while this year 654 cases have been recorded in the same period.

The temporary measures, which took effect on Thursday, make masks obligatory in hospitals, airports, shopping centers, banks, schools, public transport, and other enclosed or crowded spaces. The government also ordered temporary work-from-home for state institutions.

Authorities are urging the public to complete their COVID-19 and influenza vaccination schedules and to seek medical advice for respiratory symptoms. Frequent hand washing and the use of antibacterial gel continue to be recommended measures.

Officials also warned that they will maintain monitoring of variants and will reinforce public information campaigns. The Ministry of Health reiterated that it will continuously evaluate the epidemiological situation and warned that the measures could be expanded if the number of infections continues to rise.

(Reporting by Joan Humberto Suazo; Writing by Raul Cortes and Natalia Siniawski; Editing by Aurora Ellis)