- You are advised to get some vaccinations before travelling to countries in the EU
- COVID-19 vaccination is no longer mandatory for Europe, but it remains recommended
Health and safety is top priority when travelling overseas. Although European countries are considered safe destinations, there are some preventative measures visitors can take to promote well-being.
This article explains:
- Recommended vaccines to travel to EU destinations
- COVID-19 vaccine information for travelling to Europe
- Other health advice for your trip to Europe
You should consider speaking with a medical professional before your trip to Europe. They may have specific recommendations depending on your health circumstances.
RECOMMENDED VACCINES FOR TRAVELLING TO THE EU
As mentioned above, there are no mandatory vaccinations for Europe. However, visitors may take into consideration the following recommendations.
VACCINES RECOMMENDED FOR ALL TRAVELLERS TO EUROPE
You can use your trip to Europe as an opportunity to get up-to-date with routine vaccinations.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC), routine vaccinations trips to Spain, France, and other European countries include:
- Chickenpox
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
- Seasonal flu
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella
- Polio
- Shingles
Being up-to-date with primary and booster doses of these vaccines is recommended for all travellers, regardless of health situation and travel plans.
EUROPEAN VACCINES THAT DEPEND ON TRAVEL PLANS AND HEALTH CONDITION
A medical professional may recommend that travellers get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and/or Hepatitis B before travelling to Europe.
HEPATITIS A
- How is it spread?
Hepatitis A is spread through consuming contaminated food or water
- Should I get vaccinated?
Recommended if you are visiting rural areas or planning to eat street food. Risk is highest where sanitation is poor.
- Other considerations
If you have a medical condition which increases your chances of disease, consider getting this vaccine for Europe. Men who have sex with men and people who inject drugs are also at higher risk.
HEPATITIS B
- How is it spread?
Hepatitis B is spread through infected blood, contaminated needles, and sexual intercourse.
- Should I get vaccinated?
If you are staying in Europe for a long period or visiting frequently, this is recommended. It is also an advisable vaccine for children who are more prone to cuts.
- Other considerations
The risk of contracting this disease is highest for people who have an underlying medical condition, people who change sexual partners often, men who have sex with men, and people who inject drugs.
DO I NEED A COVID-19 VACCINE TO TRAVEL TO EUROPE?
COVID-19 vaccines are no longer mandatory to travel to countries in the EU. You will not be asked to present proof of your vaccination status.
Nevertheless, travellers are advised to get vaccinated against COVID-19 before any overseas trips, including to Europe.
OTHER HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOUR TRIP TO EUROPE
Aside from EU travel vaccines, there are some other things to take into consideration when preparing for your trip:
- Travel insurance: comprehensive travel insurance covering healthcare in Europe is highly recommended for all travellers and obligatory for Schengen visa applicants.
- Medication: if you are travelling to Europe with medication, check whether there are any restrictions for your destination
- Avoid travel if unwell: postpone travel plans if you feel unwell in the days leading up to your trip
If you do need medical treatment whilst travelling in Europe, care is of a high standard. Locate your nearest hospital or medical centre when you arrive in case of an emergency.
Most travellers enjoy a safe stay in Europe. By following vaccination recommendations and speaking to a healthcare professional, you can further increase your chances of good health throughout your trip.
