Mijas Multilingual Hotline Aims To Inform British Expats

As Spain shocks the world with its latest coronavirus statistics, an expat-aimed multi-lingual hotline has been launched in Mijas.

Spain’s latest information on its coronavirus statistics is truly terrifying, as its confirmed COVID 19 cases have risen to 17,147 over the past 24 hours – a jump of 3,500 infections. Deaths from the virus now stand at 767, a 30 per cent increase on yesterday’s figures, and the shocking statistics cover almost all Spanish regions.

The only good news coming out of the favourite European country for British retirees, second home owners and tourists is that the Costa del Sol municipality of Mijas has now launched a multilingual hotline aimed at keeping expats up to date with developments. Set up by the town's Councillor for Expatriates Arancha Lopez, the hotline will be able to communicate information as it’s received and action when it’s being taken for the many expats in the region who’re unable to speak Spanish. Residents will be able to call 660 300 086 between 10:00a.m and 6:00 Monday through Friday.

Languages supported include German, English, Swedish, Danish and Norwegian, and information on the state of alarm, the central government’s moves, how to prevent infection, contact numbers to report symptoms and other information on how the crisis is affecting Spain and the region. Also available will be translations of anything regarding coronavirus material, aimed at professionals as well as expats and the general public.

According to Lopez, concerns about expats unable to communicate in Spanish are real due to the dangers of the pandemic, especially amongst elderly expats with previous conditions. The region is traditionally a favourite with Britons looking to a warm, relaxed atmosphere for retirement and who are now most likely to suffer complications should they fall victim to the infection.