The sound of a sneeze is universal. But, the responses to a sneeze can be vastly different depending on the country you’re in.

From ‘bless you’ to ‘gesundheit’, online tutoring experts at Preply have explored the sneezing etiquette of 45 countries around Europe, to help travellers navigate even the simplest of social interactions when abroad.

UK – “Bless you” or “God bless you”

In the UK, we tend to say “bless you” when someone sneezes. It’s commonly thought that this dates back to the time of the Roman plague, starting in 590 AD. Since sneezing was the first sign that someone might have the plague, it’s thought the Pope commanded that anyone who sneezed was to be blessed immediately, in the hopes this would prevent them from falling ill.

Other explanations suggest that people once thought that sneezing expelled your soul from your body, and that saying “God bless you” would prevent evil spirits from taking its place.

Spain – “Jesús” or “Salud”

In Spain, when a person sneezes, popular responses include “Salud” and “Jesús.”

“Salud” is more commonly used without the superstitious connotations attached. It used to wish that one does not fall ill.

France – “à tes/vos souhaits”

The common reply to a sneeze in France is “à tes/vos souhaits,” which means “to your wishes.” No one quite knows why the French say this, but some say it dates back to ancient times, when changes to your breathing were seen as a marker of the divine spirit being near, so people would wish for good things to happen.

Italy – “Salute”

In response to someone sneezing, Italians would usually respond with “salute” which translates literally to “health.” This is essentially a way of wishing people good health.

In Italy, you would also use “salute” to make a toast or to cheers someone.

Germany – “Gesundheit”

In Germany, the common response to a sneeze is “gesundheit”, which also means “health”. Since sneezing is often a prelude to an illness, wishing someone good health, or that you hope they don’t get sick, is seen as the polite response.

Netherlands – “Gezondheid”

Similarly, in Dutch, you would respond to a sneeze with “gezondheid,” which again means “health.” However, if the person has sneezed three times, after the third time you would say “morgen mooi weer,” which translates to “good weather tomorrow.”

Iceland – “Guð hjálpi þér”

In Iceland, the usual response after a sneeze is “Guð hjálpi þér,” which means “God help you.” After a second sneeze you would say “styrki þig” which translates to “strengthen you,” and if you happen to sneeze a third time, the response would be “og styðji” which means “and support you.”

Sylvia Johnson, a language expert at Preply commented:

“By doing your homework and respecting etiquette, you are showing that you value and understand the cultural differences of others. It demonstrates your willingness to engage with and appreciate different ways of thinking, living, and interacting. People are more likely to connect with those who make an effort to understand and respect their cultural practices, which can lead to fostering better relationships. What’s more, different cultures have varying ideas about what is considered polite and respectful behavior. Researching etiquette helps you avoid cultural pitfalls and stops you inadvertently offending others due to unawareness or ignorance of their customs. So when in Rome, do as Romans do or in other words when you are in an unfamiliar situation, follow the lead of those who know the ropes.”