There’s still time to get MenB vaccine before term starts

With the new academic term approaching, Public Health Scotland (PHS) is urging eligible young people to ensure they receive their second dose of MenB vaccine before starting college or university. What’s more, anyone who is yet to receive their first vaccine, is encouraged to take up the offer as soon as possible.

It’s essential to receive two doses of the MenB vaccine, at least 28 days apart, for full protection. 

The MenB programme aims to protect young people who are at higher risk of infection, especially those who are preparing to start university or moving away to college in the 2026/27 academic year. Shared living arrangements and regular close contact with others can increase the risk of meningococcal disease.

The MenB vaccine helps to protect against meningitis and sepsis (inflammation throughout the body) caused by meningococcal group B bacteria.

The MenB vaccine is being offered to:

• young people born between 1 March 2008 and 28 February 2009, and any others who were in S6 during the 2025-26 academic year, regardless of future education plans
• undergraduate university entrants under the age of 25 who are starting for the first time in the academic year 2026-27, including international students
• college entrants under 25 starting for the first time in the academic year 2026-27 while living away from home in shared student accommodation, including international students.

Dr Claire Cameron, Consultant in Public Health at Public Health Scotland said:

“We know many young people are now firming up plans to head off to college or university and we’re urging those eligible to get the MenB vaccination as soon as possible. Shared living arrangements and regular close contact with others increases the risk of the bacteria that cause meningococcal disease spreading.

“If you’ve already received your first dose, it’s important to follow it up with a second dose after 28 days. Getting two doses of the MenB vaccine is one of the most important things young people can do to protect themselves from this serious and life-threatening disease.”

Lucy Backler, a 17-year-old from Fife has today received her second dose of the MenB vaccine.  Speaking at the drop-in clinic at Fife College, she said:

“I’ve just had my second dose of the Men B vaccine.  It was really easy and over in seconds.  My arm was a bit sore after my first dose last month, but it went away after a day or so.  I’m moving into halls when I start university next month so I’m really pleased that I’ve got my two doses and have done what I can to protect myself from getting seriously ill with meningitis”.

All health boards in Scotland are offering the vaccination by either appointment or drop-in clinic, or a combination of these. To find out how to get your MenB vaccine in your area, visit www.nhsinform.scot/menb-youngpeople

If you’re moving away for college or university, you’ll be able to receive your second dose at a different location, including in other parts of the UK. 

Notes to editors:

More information about the MenB vaccination programme for young people:  www.nhsinform.scot/menb-youngpeople  

More information on signs and symptoms of meningitis: www.nhsinform.scot/meningitis

Vaccines offer the best protection against meningococcal disease. For information on how to check your own or your child's vaccination history: www.nhsinform.scot/gettingvaccinations