Eclipse leaves hundreds with minor eye issues across Spain

Spain's total solar eclipse on August 12 caused a modest rise in medical visits, mostly for minor eye complaints, with no serious injuries reported. Over 500 people were treated across the country, according to one tally, though figures vary by source and region.

Regional impact

Catalonia reported the highest number of incidents, with the emergency service (SEM) attending 109 people, 37 of whom had eye problems Source: La Vanguardia. Madrid followed with 101 cases, and the Basque Country recorded 58, all mild Source: El Mundo. Other regions included Murcia (32), Aragon (30), and Valencia (20) Source: El Mundo.

Nature of incidents

Most consultations were for dizziness, heat-related malaise, and eye irritation, often not directly linked to the eclipse Source: El Español. In Valencia, 11 were trauma cases, 5 were fainting, and 3 were eye issues Source: Infobae. Authorities emphasized that retinal damage can take 24–48 hours to appear, so they remain vigilant Source: Infobae.

Public behavior praised

Officials across regions praised citizens for their prudence. "The people have been very prudent, everyone used glasses and did it well," said Cantabria's health chief Source: Infobae. The Basque emergency chief echoed this, noting people "did it well" Source: Infobae.

Discrepancies

While El Mundo's later tally cites 511 total cases, La Vanguardia reports over 400 in twelve regions, and Infobae mentions over 300 in eleven. These differences stem from varying reporting times and inclusion criteria Source: El Mundo, La Vanguardia, Infobae.