Glastonbury Survival Guide: Jabs, Shade & Safe Shenanigans – Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Go!

Festival season is nearly upon us and the countdown to Glastonbury 2025 is officially on! With just two weeks to go until Worthy Farm is transformed into a field of musical magic, glitter, and the occasional rogue tent pole, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has dropped some must-read health advice for festivalgoers.

And before you roll your eyes – this isn’t just mum-level nagging. We’re talking serious stuff like measles outbreaks, dodgy STIs, dehydration dangers, and even tick bites. So, if you’re heading to Glasto (or any other big summer fest), here’s your handy, all-in-one health checklist – festival edition.

Get Your Jabs – Especially the MMR One

First up, and sounding very 1800s (but sadly very 2025), measles is having a moment – and not in a good way. The UKHSA says it’s highly contagious and is currently spreading across the country, with hot spots in the South West (yes, that includes Somerset).

If you’re not fully vaccinated with the MMR jab (that’s measles, mumps and rubella), now’s the time to sort it. It’s free, and it’s never too late to get it. Dr Alasdair Wood from the UKHSA put it bluntly: “Festivals are the perfect place for measles to spread.” Charming.

Look out for: high fever, red watery eyes, and a blotchy rash. If that sounds like your pre-headliner hangover – get checked.

Weather-Ready is the New Chic

Glastonbury is known for throwing four seasons at you in one afternoon. Think boiling hot Pyramid field by day, Baltic tents by night. So, the mantra is pack for every possible weather scenario.

Bring:

• • • A refillable water bottle and actually drink from it
    • Suncream, even if it’s cloudy
    • A hat, because bucket hats are back anyway
    • Warm layers for the evening chill
    • Wellies and waterproofs, just in case the Glasto mud gods strike again

Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, cramps, confusion, nausea – and don’t be a hero. Sit down, sip water, and cool off if you’re struggling.

Safer Sex = Happier Morning After

Sorry to go all Year 9 PSHE on you, but STIs are on the rise, and Glasto’s love-in vibe can sometimes bring a little more than memories. Cases of syphilis (yep, still a thing) are climbing, particularly in younger people.

Condoms are your best friend, and testing is free and confidential, even if you’ve got zero symptoms. Seriously, sort it before or after the fest. Your future self will thank you.

Tick Talk – Yes, Really

If you’re planning woodland walks or setting up camp near the undergrowth, here’s one you might not expect: ticks. These little suckers are active between March and October, and they’re not just gross – they can spread Lyme disease.

Use insect repellent (DEET is your pal), wear long socks or trousers in grassy areas, and check your skin and clothes regularly. If you find a tick, remove it properly with tweezers – don’t burn it off or drown it in gin, no matter what your tent mate suggests.

Say No to Dodgy Drugs – or at Least Know the Risks

Let’s keep it real: some people will dabble, but Glastonbury’s official stance is crystal clear – no illegal substances. If you’re caught dealing or with drugs, you could be booted off site. Worth it? Nope.

If you do take something and feel weird, go to the welfare tent. No one will judge you – they’re there to help.

A word on polydrug use (mixing drugs and alcohol or multiple substances): it’s way more dangerous than it sounds. Reactions can be unpredictable and even fatal. Look out for signs of overdose like unconsciousness, blue lips, shallow breathing or weird snoring sounds. If in doubt, get help immediately.

Extra Glasto-Smart Tips from Somerset’s Public Health Team

Alison Bell, Acting Director of Public Health for Somerset, offered some golden nuggets:

• • • Read the Glasto app and safety info before you go
    • Don’t travel if you feel ill
    • Use sun lotion and seek shade
    • Wash your hands regularly – yes, really
    • Carry hand sanitiser
    • Never BBQ in a tent – carbon monoxide poisoning is real

Final Thoughts

Look, Glastonbury is pure magic – but it’s also a marathon. Taking a few precautions means you’ll get to enjoy the full five days without ending up in the medical tent or worse, heading home early.

 So, slap on that suncream, grab a condom or two, check your vaccine status, and remember – hydration is your headliner. Stay safe, dance hard, and we’ll see you down the front for The 1975.