511 People in Spain Sought Medical Help After Solar Eclipse

The total solar eclipse observed in Spain on August 12 caused unexpected incidents. At least 511 people across the country sought medical assistance after the event.

Most cases were mild. People reported dizziness, anxiety, minor injuries and vision-related complaints.

The highest numbers were recorded in Catalonia, with 115 people, Madrid, with 101, and the Basque Country, with 58. In Catalonia, 37 people complained of eye pain, but only 10 required emergency medical care.

Doctors warned that people may mistakenly believe the reduced light during a solar eclipse makes looking at the Sun less dangerous. In fact, staring at the Sun without protection can seriously damage the retina.

Experts recommend using only specially certified protective glasses when observing such celestial events.

The August 12 eclipse was also a major event for Europe. In Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and parts of Spain, the Sun was completely obscured by the Moon. In Western Europe's major cities, 85–95% of the solar disk was obscured.