British tourists have been urged to consider one vaccine before travelling to countries such as Spain, Portugal and Greece this year. Jack Janetzki, lecturer in pharmacy and pharmacology at the University of South Australia, has urged travellers to top up their flu vaccine before travelling to the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, North Africa and the USA.
He urged those who were last vaccinated in April or May to consider another shot as it may not still be effective. This is especially important if the trip coincides with flu season. Jack explained: “If you had your flu shot in April or May, it may no longer offer enough protection by the time you travel in July or later.”
He added: “Getting a second shot will provide you with optimal protection against the flu while travelling to the Northern Hemisphere. Ideally, get your second shot at least two weeks before your departure, so your body has time to build up protection.”
Flu season in the UK typically occurs over winter between October and March, with peak activity often in December and January.
The NHS offers free vaccinations to certain vulnerable groups every year. From September 1, pregnant women and primary and secondary school children up to year 11 will be eligible for free vaccinations, as will other vulnerable groups.
From October 2025, those aged 65 years and over will be able to get a free flu jab, as well as certain carers and those in long-stay residential care homes.
Jack stressed that certain holidays pose a higher risk, such as cruise ships where large groups of people live in confined and close proximity to each other, as well as religious pilgrimages with large crowds of people, and group tours.
He warned: “The flu is more than just a sniffle. It can lead to serious illness, cancelled plans and perhaps a hospital stay in a foreign country.
“Even if you don’t get sick, you could pass the virus to others more vulnerable than yourself. So before you finish your pre-travel checklist, make sure your flu shots are up to date.”