13 key questions answered about getting the flu vaccine in Spain
Foreigners often have questions about the rules for getting the flu vaccine (la vacuna de la gripe) in Spain, so we’ve set out to clear up some common doubts, from whether pharmacists can administer it to whether you need to be registered first.
Many different types of people are at-risk from catching the flu this winter. To protect yourself from it or help ensure your symptoms are milder if you do get it, a vaccine is typically recommended, depending on your situation. Here are some of the most common questions and answers about getting the flu vaccine in Spain.
I’m over 60, can I get the flu vaccine?
Yes, anyone over the age of 60 should be given the flu vaccine in Spain, whether you have public or private health care. Often you’ll be sent an appointment when the schedule opens up in your region, but you should contact your local health clinic to find out.
My young children are in nursery; can they get the vaccine?
Yes, babies and children between 6 months and 5 years old can get the vaccine.
READ ALSO: How to get the flu vaccine in Spain in 2026/2027
I’m pregnant, can I get vaccinated against flu?
Yes, if you are pregnant or up to six months postpartum, you can have the flu shot.
I’m vulnerable, can I get the vaccine?
Yes, if you’re in an at-risk group such as being immunosuppressed, having an underlying health condition or a chronic illness you will be able to get the flu vaccine. Your doctor should inform you about when you can get it, but it’s worth asking just in case they don’t.
I’m under 60 and don’t fit into any of the categories above, can I get the vaccine?
This depends on your reason for wanting the flu vaccine and your situation. You may still be able to get one, but it’s likely you’ll need a doctor’s prescription and pay for the vaccine yourself, but in will depend on where you live as well as several other factors.
When can I get the flu vaccine in Spain?
This will entirely depend on which category you fall into, where you live in the country and if you have public or private healthcare. Check out our article on when each region is opening its vaccine schedule this year.
Do they administer flu jabs at pharmacies in Spain?
No. Although you may be able to buy the vaccine from a pharmacy, you will usually need to take it to a clinic or similar for it to be administered by a health professional. Unfortunately, this type of injection is not one you can give yourself, as it must be delivered into the muscle, not just into the fat or under the skin. Therefore it’s important you get someone to administer it who is trained to do so.
Do I need to be registered with the public health system to get the vaccine?
Not necessarily. If you don’t have public health care, whether you can get the vaccine or not will depend on your private health insurance and what your policy covers. It’s worth contacting them to find out. You should be able to get it through your private healthcare provider but may need to pay separately for it.
I’ve just arrived in Spain and fall into an at-risk category; can I get the vaccine?
Again, this will depend on whether you have public or private healthcare. If you’re not registered yet with any healthcare, it’s important to sign up to social security if applicable and visit your local clinic. If you’re not working in Spain and not paying into social security, you should have private healthcare, so you should contract this as soon as possible, if you haven’t already done so.
Do I need to be registered on the padrón to get the flu vaccine?
Generally you need to be registered on the padrón with your local town hall in order to register with the public health service in Spain. If you’re not registered, but you have private health insurance in Spain or prescription from a doctor, you may be able to get it anyway.
Can I get the vaccine if I’m visiting Spain or I’m staying in my holiday home over the winter?
Flu vaccines are usually not offered to tourists or non-residents in Spain, but if you have a prescription from a doctor back home, you may be able to use it here to purchase the vaccine at a pharmacy. As mentioned above, pharmacies in Spain aren’t allowed to administer the vaccine though, so you may have to make and pay for an appointment at a private clinic for nurse to give it to you.
Are there any side effects?
Yes, it’s possible to have side effects from the vaccine, although these are usually mild and only last a couple of days. They could include headaches, a low-grade fever, muscle aches and tiredness. There could also be redness or swelling at the injection site. It’s important to ask your doctor or nurse to explain the side effects beforehand as they could be different depending on which type of vaccine you’re given.
I’ve already had the flu this season, can I still get the vaccine?
Generally yes, you can still get the vaccine, although you may need to wait a certain amount of time after you’ve recovered. Before getting it though, it’s important to inform you’re doctor that you’ve already had the flu recently and ask what they would advise.
