Spain health and safety
Visitors to Spain need not be overly concerned with health and safety issues, though it is important to use your common sense and remain aware of your surroundings and belongings when travelling. No vaccinations are required to enter the country and the Spanish healthcare system is good. Street crime is a problem in certain areas, particularly in the big cities.
No major health risks are associated with Spain, and no vaccinations are required in order to enter the country. Emergency health care at government-funded hospitals is free for most EU citizens, but private clinics are not included in this arrangement.
A series of bombs exploded during rush hour at three different train stations in Madrid in March 2004, killing almost 200 and injuring over 1,000 people. A group allegedly connected to Al Qaeda claimed responsibility for the blasts. The Basque separatist group, ETA, has also threatened to carry out terrorist attacks in tourist areas, so travellers should be on the alert at public attractions. Petty crime is fairly high in the cities, and tourists are advised against carrying large amounts of money, walking alone at night, and to be wary of strangers.
Current advisory warnings about health and safety in Spain
British foreign office – Spain webpage
Up-to-date and reliable advice on health and security issues in Spain.
www.fco.gov.uk
MD Travel Health - Spain advice
Comprehensive medical advice on disease and health risks, precautions and remedies.
http://www.mdtravelhealth.com
Smartraveller
Australian Government sponsored site with detailed and current information on travel risks in Spain.
www.smartraveller.gov.au
More topics on this site…
Spain travel information
Spain travel tips
Spain maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: Most nationalities do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days
Season: May – June, September
Money: Euro
Language: Spanish, with Catalan, Basque and Galician in certain areas. English is widely understood.
Emergency #: Police - 091; Fire / Ambulance (Bomberas) - 085