With the new academic term approaching, NHS Forth Valley 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.

Dates and times of local drop-in clinics, which are being held at vaccination centres based at Falkirk Community Hospital, Stirling Health and Care Village and Clackmannanshire Community Healthcare Centre, can be found on the NHS Forth Valley website www.nhsforthvalley.com/MenB

Dr Calum Robertson, Consultant in Public Health at NHS Forth Valley, said: “As young people prepare to start college or university, we’re encouraging everyone who is eligible to get the MenB vaccine as soon as possible. Living in shared accommodation and mixing closely with new people can increase the risk of meningococcal disease spreading.

The MenB vaccine offers important protection against a serious and potentially life-threatening infection. To be fully protected, it’s essential to receive two doses at least 28 days apart. If you’ve not yet had your first dose, or are due your second, please take up the offer as soon as you can.”

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 other areas, 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.