As families begin planning their summer vacations, Europe remains one of the most popular international travel destinations. Now is the perfect time to ask: “Do I need any vaccines to travel to Europe in 2025?”
While Europe is generally considered low-risk when it comes to health concerns – thanks to high standards of sanitation and universal healthcare – some highly contagious and potentially life-threatening diseases like measles and pertussis (whooping cough) continue to circulate. If you’re planning a trip to Europe, staying informed about current outbreaks and making sure you’re up to date on vaccinations can help protect your family, fellow travelers, and communities.
Routine Vaccines for Travel to Europe in 2025
Travel – especially through crowded airports, public transit, and tourist attractions – increases your exposure to infectious diseases. During Europe’s busy summer season, this risk is even greater. The CDC recommends the following routine vaccines for international travel to Europe:
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- Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Recommended for everyone over 6 months of age. The 2024 – 25 flu season was one of the worst in recent years. Although flu activity typically declines by spring in the Northern Hemisphere, a flu shot – lasting about six months – can help prevent illness while abroad.
- COVID-19 Vaccine: COVID-19 remains the most common vaccine-preventable disease among travelers. Make sure you’ve received the latest vaccine formulation released in Fall 2024. Adults over age 65 should get a booster dose 6 months after their most recent one.
These vaccines are essential for everyone, but especially for travelers. Getting sick abroad can not only ruin your trip but also make it challenging to access care in a foreign country.
MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) Vaccine for Europe Travel
Measles: Highly Contagious and Still Common in Europe
Make sure you’re up to date on your MMR vaccine. Measles is one of the most contagious viruses and can be especially severe in children. Despite Europe’s overall strong healthcare systems, measles outbreaks remain frequent.
In 2024, WHO and UNICEF reported 127,350 measles cases across Europe – the highest since 1997. Over 40% of these cases were in children under 5, and more than half required hospitalization.
As of early 2025, active outbreaks have been reported in The Netherlands and Spain, with increased transmission in Northern Ireland, Austria, Belgium, Armenia, Romania, Scotland, and the UK (including England and Wales). Check CDC travel health notices for current measles outbreaks.
Do Adults Need an MMR Vaccine?
Yes. All travelers over 12 months of age should have two documented doses of the MMR vaccine, given at least 28 days apart for lifetime protection. Adults born in the U.S. before 1957 are typically considered immune.
What if My Baby Is Too Young for a MMR Vaccine?
If you’re traveling with an infant aged 6–11 months, the CDC recommends an early MMR dose at least two weeks before departure.
Tdap Vaccine for Pertussis Outbreaks in Europe in 2025
Pertussis (whooping cough) is making a global comeback – including in many parts of Europe. The European CDC reported nearly 60,000 pertussis cases between 2023 and April 2024 – a tenfold increase from previous years. Infants under 6 months are especially vulnerable.
The UK alone saw over 13,000 cases and 10 infant deaths in early 2024. France is experiencing its worst outbreak in 25 years, and new cases are surging in Germany, Norway, Spain, and other countries.
Tdap Vaccine for Travelers
The Tdap vaccine (for adults and adolescents) and DTaP (for children under 7) protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. Pregnant women in the U.S. routinely receive a Tdap booster during each pregnancy to protect their newborns.
If it’s been more than 5 years since your last Tdap vaccine, consider a booster – especially before international travel.
Hepatitis A Vaccine for Travel to Europe
Hepatitis A is a liver infection spread through contaminated food, water, or close contact. While more common in developing regions, several European countries – including Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, and Spain – have moderate hepatitis A risk.
Should I Get a Hepatitis A Vaccine for Europe?
Yes. The hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective, safe, and provides lifetime immunity. While it’s part of routine childhood immunization in the U.S., many adults remain unvaccinated. All international travelers should consider this vaccine, especially when visiting Southern or Eastern Europe.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) Vaccine for Outdoor Activities in Europe
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection transmitted by tick bites, affecting the brain and spinal cord. It’s a concern for travelers planning outdoor activities such as hiking or camping in forested areas of Central and Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and the Baltics.
The risk is highest during spring and summer. While tick-bite prevention is key, a TBE vaccine is available and recommended for certain travelers. Speak with your travel health provider to assess your risk.
Consult a Travel Health Specialist Before Traveling to Europe
Before your trip, check with your primary care provider or pediatrician to ensure your routine vaccines are current. TravelBug Health also carries these routine vaccines in stock. For personalized advice on additional travel vaccines – like hepatitis A or TBE – The CDC recommends a visit with a travel health specialist at least 6–8 weeks before departure.
By taking these preventive steps, you’ll be better prepared to explore Europe with confidence and peace of mind.
To learn more about vaccines for travel to Europe in 2025 or to book an appointment, visit www.travelbughealth.com.
