Authorities point to energy poverty and lack of equipment maintenance as the primary causes. Many households have turned to older, less safe heating methods such as braziers or catalytic stoves due to rising electricity costs and intense cold spells.
“"Mechanisms that perhaps should no longer exist, such as braziers or catalytic stoves, have been brought back."
The Gironès area recorded the highest number of cases with 58 people treated, while the Garrotxa region saw cases double. Health officials warn that symptoms like dizziness and headaches should be taken seriously, especially if they improve upon leaving the building.
