Travel Vaccines and Advice for the Balearics
The Balearic Islands function as an autonomous community of Spain. They’re an archipelago located in the Mediterranean Sea.
There are number of islands that make up the Balearics, including: Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera.
The population has grown dramatically over the past 50 years, nearly doubling. Over one million people now live on the Balearics.
The official languages of the Balearic Islands are Catalan and Spanish.
The region is known for its stunning beaches and amazing atmosphere.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Balearics?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in the Balearics
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Balearics?
What Is the Climate Like in the Balearics?
How Safe Are the Balearics?
Partying in the Balearics
What Should I Take to the Balearics?
U.S. Embassy in the Balearics
Do I Need Vaccines for the Balearics?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Balearics. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Balearics: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, 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:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers 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 Balearics |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Balearics |
||
| 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, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), is a contagious liver infection. It spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Preventive measures include vaccination, good hygiene, and avoiding raw shellfish. The hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective, requiring two doses for long-term protection.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral disease affecting mammals, including humans, primarily transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is key to preventing rabies, with pre-exposure shots effectively preventing infection.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B virus leads to liver infection through contact with infected fluids. The most effective safeguard is the hepatitis B vaccine, administered in a series of shots that stimulate the body to produce antibodies, providing long-term immunity. It is crucial for infants and those at an increased risk of exposure.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly infectious diseases, emphasizing the importance of vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is the key to personal and public health safety. It strengthens immunity, minimizing the risk of infection, and is a critical component in halting the spread of these contagious viruses.
The Balearic Islands are known for their state-of-the-art medical facilities. The islands can provide travelers with needed care without much of a language barrier.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? To book your appointment, either call or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in the Balearics
Prevent Bug Bites in the Balearics
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 the Balearics
Safeguard your health while abroad by researching local cuisine, avoiding tap water, and practicing hand hygiene. Choose reputable eateries, be cautious with ice, and drink in moderation. A travelers’ diarrhea kit is recommended for travel to all regions throughout the world.
Infections To Be Aware of in the Balearics
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease transmitted by infected sand flies. It poses a significant health threat to humans and animals. Preventive measures include using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and staying indoors during peak sand fly activity.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Balearics?
No tourist visa is required for U.S. citizens if your stay is under 90 days. For entry, your passport must be valid for at least six months after entry with one empty page for a stamp.
Balearics Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Balearics? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Spain and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in the Balearics?
The climate of the Balearics is Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot summers.
Rainfall is rare during summer months, with most rain occurring in winter months.
The best time to visit is in the summer. But, if you’re planning on hiking, you may want to wait until the winter and for cooler temperatures. The temperatures range from 45 to 75 degrees in winter; and 60 to 85 degrees in summer.
How Safe Are the Balearics?
In early 2018, a small tsunami hit the Balearic Islands. There were no injuries or deaths and there are no travel restrictions.
The Balearics are safe for travelers with pick-pocketing being the most common crime.
If a crime occurs while traveling, remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.
Partying in the Balearics
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
The Balearic Islands are known for their beaches and life of leisure. It is also known for its extravagant party life, especially in Ibiza. In fact, Ibiza itself claims it is the clubbing capital of the world.
If you want to party in Ibiza, travel to the Balearic Islands during the summer months. If you would rather have a quiet vacation, come during the winter months where only a few clubs are open.
During the summer, the beaches are also busy and popular among tourists. Further into the island, the terrain is hilly and known for hiking.
If you are planning to go out clubbing in Ibiza, always practice safety. Never go out alone, keep an eye on your drink, watch your bartender pour your drink, and don’t walk around alone at night.
What Should I Take to the Balearics?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to the Balearics:
- Raincoat, especially if you’re traveling in May.
- Sunblock
- Insect repellent
- Swimsuit and any beach accessories
- Hiking boots if you plan on hiking
U.S. Embassy in the Balearics
All Americans visiting the Balearic Islands should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
There is no U.S. embassy in the Balearic Islands, but it is served by the embassy in Spain.
U.S. Embassy Madrid
Calle Serrano, 75
28006 Madrid, Spain
Telephone: (34) 91 587 2200
Emergency after-hours telephone: (34) 91 587 2200
Fax: (34) 91 587 2303
E-mail: askacs@state.gov
If you have any questions about traveling to the Balearics or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for the Balearics
“The nurse was an extraordinary person. She made things very easy for me and answered all my questions about the Balearics with a cutting edge professionalism.”
“Met with the nurse and was impressed with his professional background, ability to explain what is needed to protect against disease in the Balearics and deliver quick pain-free inoculations. Would recommend his services.”
“I had a wonderful experience at Passport Health. They listened to my concerns about the Balearics with patience and a generous spirit. I felt well-advised.”
“This was my first trip and it was great. The nurse was very knowledgeable and nice, she answered all my questions, provided me with significant info about the Balearics and I never felt rushed. I will definitely return.”
“Went for a quick shot for the Balearics and was in and out in no time! Always a great conversation!!”
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