Early Flu Season in Spain: ECDC Urges Immediate Vaccination

Early Flu Season in Spain: ECDC Urges Immediate Vaccination

This year, the flu season in European Union countries, including Spain, has started 3–4 weeks earlier than usual. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported this development.

The dominant circulating virus is the A(H3N2) subtype K variant, which experts say may cause more severe illness, especially among elderly individuals and those with chronic conditions.

Due to the early rise in cases, the ECDC strongly recommends that everyone in risk groups—or anyone wishing to protect themselves—get vaccinated as soon as possible, without waiting for the traditional autumn-winter peak.

In Spain, interest in vaccination is high: according to recent surveys, nearly half of the country's population plans to get vaccinated this season.

Vaccination is free for all individuals insured under the public healthcare system. Appointments can be made:

• by calling your local health center,
• in person at the reception desk,
• via your regional authority’s app or website (depending on the region).

Only your SIP card number (healthcare ID) is required. You may also schedule vaccinations for family members by providing their information.

Health professionals emphasize: the best time to get vaccinated is now, while the virus is still gaining momentum. Immunity typically develops about two weeks after vaccination.