Madrid, 1 June 2022 (dpa/MIA) — The new Omicron subvariant BA.5 has triggered a rise in coronavirus infections in Portugal, where few measures to contain Covid-19's spread remain in place. Around 87% of all registered new infections are now attributable to this variant, according to the National Institute of Health (INSA). The seven-day incidence of new infections per 100,000 inhabitants has quadrupled since mid-April to around 1,800 at last count. Of more concern is the fact that, despite the 87% vaccination rate in Portugal, the number of SARS-CoV-2 hospital patients and deaths attributed to the disease have also edged up. There are hardly any coronavirus restrictions in the country of 10 million. Masks are now only mandatory in public transport, nursing homes and hospitals. The authorities are advising people to voluntarily wear masks wherever there is an increased risk of infection.