The situation in the Iberian countries is "particularly worrying", said Clement Beaune, adding that "in the next few days France could strengthen the measures" on the trips to these countries.

This advice comes due to the increase in cases, more specifically those with the more contagious Delta variant.

In an interview with the television channel France 2, Clement Beaune also said that for “those who have not booked their holidays, they should avoid” Portugal and Spain, especially the region of Catalonia.

“It's better to stay in France, or go to other countries,” he added.

Portugal registered on 7 July, eight deaths attributed to Covid-19, the highest number since 14 April, 3,285 new cases of infection by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, and a decrease in hospital admissions, according to data from the General Directorate of Health (DGS).

Spain registered 17,384 new cases of Covid-19 in the last 24 hours.