Travel Vaccines and Advice for Spain
With a mix of Mediterranean beaches and soaring mountains, Spain is a popular and thriving European destination. The varying geography offers many different outdoor adventures. Cities boast beautiful old-world architecture and a growing gastronomical reputation.
Whether you come to Spain for skiing, beaches or vibrant food and culture, you are sure to find something to delight you.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Spain?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Spain
Do I Need a Visa for Spain?
What Is the Climate Like in Spain?
How Safe Is Spain?
Wandering Through Gaudí Buildings in Barcelona
What Should I Pack for Spain?
Canadian Embassy in Spain
Do I Need Vaccines for Spain?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Spain. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Spain: hepatitis A, polio, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Spain |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Spain |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spreading through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective shot that provides immunity against the virus, usually given in two doses.
- Rabies – The rabies virus is a deadly threat that spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals. Preventing rabies involves timely vaccination, avoiding contact with wildlife and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten. The rabies vaccine is instrumental in developing immunity and safeguarding against this fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, caused by the hepatitis B virus, spreads through infected bodily fluids. While safe practices can reduce the risk, vaccination is the most reliable defense. The hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring robust and long-lasting protection against this liver disease.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious diseases transmitted via respiratory droplets and touch. Preventing these illnesses is primarily achieved through vaccination, using the MMR vaccine. It’s administered in two doses and provides immunity against all three viruses.
As a developed country, Spain has fewer health risks than other destinations. But, there is still some risk. Consider bringing a traveller’s diarrhea kit in case of stomach problems.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Spain
Prevent Bug Bites in Spain
If you get bitten by bugs, clean the area, resist scratching, and use over-the-counter remedies like hydrocortisone or antihistamines to relieve itching. Seek medical attention for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Spain
Safeguard your health during international travels by eating fully cooked, hot meals, at reliable dining establishments. To minimize the chances of travellers’ diarrhea, follow these precautions: choose safe foods, avoid untreated water, practice frequent hand-washing, consider probiotics, and exercise caution when indulging in unfamiliar cuisines.
Altitude Sickness in Spain
Altitude sickness, marked by symptoms such as headaches and fatigue due to low oxygen levels at high elevations. AMS can be avoided through gradual ascent, hydration, and certain medications like acetazolamide. If AMS strikes, descending promptly to lower altitudes, resting, and seeking medical assistance if symptoms persist are crucial steps for recovery.
Infections To Be Aware of in Spain
- Leishmaniasis – The transmission of leishmaniasis primarily occurs through infected sand fly bites, with other routes of transmission possible. Preventing the disease involves minimizing exposure to sand flies. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious symptoms.
Do I Need a Visa for Spain?
A passport which is valid for at least 3 months from the expected date of departure from the Schengen area. A business and tourist visa is not required for stays up to 90 days. This 90 day period begins upon initial entry into the Schengen area.
Spain Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Spain? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Spain and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Spain is part of the European Union. Entry and exit requirements may change based on EU policy.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Spain?
Spain’s weather can vary according to your location within the country.
The southern and eastern coastal regions have a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and usually very dry, and winters that tend to be mild but damp and rainy. The most likely time for rain in these locations is during the fall, from September to December.
In the central inland region of the country, the climate tends to be hot in the summer as well. But, the winters are much colder and snowfall is more likely, especially in the mountains. Rain falls most often in the spring and the autumn months.
The northern part of the country, often called Basque country, has a temperate climate. Summer temperatures in this area are much cooler than those in the south, and the winters are mild. Rain and clouds are very common, especially during the winter months.
Coastal regions are popular in the summer, especially June to August. Mountain regions experience a boom in January and February for skiing and other sports.
How Safe Is Spain?
When travelling to Spain, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take steps to stay safe. Here are some tips to follow:
- Keep your valuables close to you in crowded areas, as pickpockets often target tourists.
- Use credit or debit cards instead of carrying large amounts of cash. Cover the keypad when using an ATM.
- Be cautious when using public transportation, especially at night.
- Avoid walking alone at night and stay in well-lit areas.
- Be cautious when accepting drinks from strangers.
- Follow local laws and customs, particularly when it comes to alcohol and drugs.
- Be aware of any protests or demonstrations that may be taking place.
- Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Keep your passport and other important documents in a safe place.
- If you have any issues or concerns, seek help from local authorities or your embassy or consulate.
Wandering Through Gaudí Buildings in Barcelona
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Barcelona is a popular destination for many reasons. One of the most visited are its many buildings designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí.
Gaudí’s structures are some of the most important tourist destinations in Barcelona. Some have even been made UNESCO World Heritage sites. They are known for their eccentric, fantastical designs featuring unusual curves, angles and colors. This sets them apart from the surrounding buildings.
One of the most famous Gaudí structures is a church called the Basílica de la Sagrada Família. The church has been under construction for 125 years. Construction is not expected to finish until 2030. But, it is still a major tourist attraction and a breathtaking piece of architecture.
What Should I Pack for Spain?
Don’t forget to bring the following essentials on your trip to Spain:
- Theft-Proof Bag – While no bag can be entirely theft-proof, choosing bags that have strong straps and that cross over your body.
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing – Be sure to check the weather for your vacation to make sure you have the right clothes for the climate. Keep warm in the winter, stay cool in the summer, and in the spring and autumn, be ready for any type of weather.
- Comfortable Shoes – The best way to enjoy Spanish cities, like many European cities, is by walking. Be sure to have shoes with good support so you don’t tire out your feet.
- Sunscreen – A bottle of sunscreen is essential to prevent painful sunburns, especially in summer.
Canadian Embassy in Spain
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Spain, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:
Canadian Embassy in Spain
Torre Emperador Castellana,
Paseo de la Castellana 259D,
28046 Madrid, Spain
Telephone: (34) 91 382 8400
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Spain
“I am going to visit my first grandchild in Spain, and was told that I needed to have the Pertussis (Tdap) booster and the flu shot before going. I already had the flu shot, but it was impossible to get the Tdap at short notice anywhere in Montreal until I found Passport Health. I am very grateful to you!”
“Our time spent at Passport health was easy and quick. We were shown in on time. Our nurse was friendly and knowledgeable. We left with everything we needed for our trip to Spain.”
“Great service by very helpful and friendly travel nurses. They have a good understanding of what vaccinations are required for your destination and clearly explain their recommendations. They send you home with a package detailing what to do and what to avoid to help keep you well on your travels.”
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