Thousands of young people in Scotland are to be offered free vaccination against meningococcal B disease (MenB) ahead of the 2026-27 academic year. The transition to university or college – particularly into shared accommodation – is one of the highest-risk periods for the disease, as close contact with large numbers of new people increases the risk of it spreading.
Thousands of young people in Scotland are to be offered free vaccination against meningococcal B disease (MenB) ahead of the 2026-27 academic year.
Meningococcal disease, which can include meningitis and/or septicaemia, is life-threatening and can result in life-changing disabilities including amputations, hearing loss, and brain damage. It is fatal in around 10% of cases.
The transition to university or college – particularly into shared accommodation – is one of the highest-risk periods for the disease, as close contact with large numbers of new people increases the risk of it spreading.
The programme will start in July 2026 and two doses are essential for full protection.
It is open to:
The Scottish Government has been working with Public Health Scotland, NHS Immunisation Services, universities, colleges and student representative bodies to support delivery of the programme.
Individuals must be aged under 25 on 31 December 2026 and only need to meet one of the criteria to be eligible for vaccination.
Where possible, both doses should be completed before starting at university or college
The MenB vaccine is already offered to infants, and the MenACWY vaccine to adolescents and young adults, free on the NHS
This programme aligns with similar approaches being developed across the UK’s four nations.
All key information will be published on NHS Inform.