Winter is upon us with cooler weather, fewer hours of sun, and more germs are spreading. Yes, it is flu season and some people choose to have a flu shot. This post isn’t about the rights or wrongs of getting a vaccine. It’s just instructions on how to get your flu vaccination here in Spain.
The Flu Vaccine
Influenza vaccines, also known as flu shots or flu jabs, are vaccines that protect against infection by influenza viruses. A new version of the vaccine is developed twice a year, as the influenza virus rapidly changes.
How To Get A Flu Shot (la vacuna de la gripe)
Going to the hospital or getting the flu vaccine on your own is the easiest options available. In Spain there are a few different vaccines, but the most common is Mutagrip or Vaxigrip.
Here are some commonly used terms in English (influenza vaccine, flu jab, flu shot, flu vaccine, flu vaccination).
In Spanish you can say “la vacuna de la gripe” or “vacuna antigripal”
Hospital or Centro de Salud
The hospital will carry the flu vaccine and should have it on hand. You will likely need to make an appointment and just show up for your appointment to get the vaccination.
On your own
1. Go to your local farmacia and ask to purchase the flu vaccine. it will come in a small box, likely refrigerated, so make sure you have it administered right away.
2. Take the vial of the vaccine to one of the following: (they may require a small fee)
- Your general practitioner
They may require an appointment with your doctor - Almusalud
This center has set days and times you may walk in to have the vaccine administered.
In English?
If you prefer to speak English, stop by the Farmacia Los Marinos to pick up your vaccine (you may want to call and be sure they have the flu vaccine in stock). The pharmacy is located at the roundabout, in front of Chinasol, at the end of San Cristobal Beach.
Then walk down the beach, to Av Europa and turn left, continue walking about 3 minutes to Almusalud to have them administer your flu shot. (10 minute walk in total)
Disclaimer: We are not medics and do not provide any recommendations on what you should or should not do. Nor will we advise on who is the best candidate for getting a flu shot. We are just providing the information to those who have already decided it is right for them. For questions, seek answers from your doctor or pharmacist.
