There are few health risks for those who are travelling to Spain and entry to the country is not normally dependent upon having vaccination certificates. However, it is a good idea to make sure that general vaccinations are up to date before you travel and this will depend upon where you are travelling from.

Routine vaccinations include those for influenza, chickenpox, polio, MMR and DPT. It is often recommended by doctors to have a vaccination for Hepatitis B. Rabies vaccinations are only recommended for those who will be coming into contact with animals such as bats. There are other conditions which may occur in some regions of Spain and which travellers should be aware of, although contraction is rare. Measles outbreaks are reported regularly in Spain so immunisation is particularly important.

Tickborne encephalitis (referred to as TBE) is a condition which occurs during warmer weather but is generally confined to forested areas. Leishmaniasis is found in Mediterranean countries and those who are HIV positive are at a higher risk of infection. This is a disease which is spread via insect bites and it is recommended that precautions are taken to prevent insect bites where possible. There have been instances of bird flu in Spain and vaccination against this particular strain of the illness is recommended.

Those who are travelling from other parts of the world where there are diseases such as yellow fever may need to have proof that they are free of the disease and have been vaccinated against it.

Sun exposure is a risk in some parts of Spain which have long hours of sunshine and high temperatures. Sun block is recommended and hats and sunglasses should also be used for extra protection.

It is a good idea to contact the foreign office of your own government for the latest information on travelling to Spain before you leave so that you can be made aware of any recently developed risks.

Useful Resources

UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/travel-advice-by-country/europe/spain
Tel: 0845 850 2829
Email: TravelAdvicePublicEnquiries@fco.gov.uk

US State Department
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1024.html#medical