TUESDAY, 23 JUNE, 2026

MenB vaccination programme launched for students and young people in Tayside

NHS Tayside is encouraging eligible young people to come forward for the MenB vaccine ahead of the new academic year, following the announcement of a national vaccination programme earlier this month.

The programme comes in response to recent cases of meningitis in the UK and is aimed at helping protect those most at risk of meningococcal disease, particularly young people preparing to enter higher or further education and live in shared accommodation.

Those eligible for the vaccine include:

• Young people born between 1 March 2008 and 28 February 2009, and those in S6 during the 2025/26 academic year.

• Undergraduate university entrants under the age of 25 starting for the first time in the 2026/27 academic year, including international students. This includes those turning 25 between 6 July and 31 December 2026.

• College entrants under 25 starting for the first time in 2026/27 who will be living away from home in shared student accommodation. This includes those turning 25 between 6 July and 31 December 2026.

Appointments will begin from 6 July 2026, with the vaccine delivered in two doses given at least 28 days apart.

Young people who are due to start university in September are advised to complete the full course of vaccination at least two weeks before the start of term to ensure maximum protection.

To help manage demand, a phased approach to booking has been introduced:

• Those starting university, or starting college and moving into shared student accommodation, at the start of the 2026/27 academic year can call to book from now.

• Anyone born between 1 March 2008 and 28 February 2009, or in S6 in the 2025/26 academic year, who won’t be starting university or college this year, can call from 29 June.

Appointments can be booked by calling the NHS Tayside vaccination booking line on 01382 423108.

Dr Daniel Chandler, Consultant in Public Health Medicine and Immunisation Coordinator at NHS Tayside, said: “Meningococcal group B infection can develop very quickly and, in some cases, can be life-threatening, which is why vaccination is so important.

“We’re asking young people and families to check carefully when they should call to book their appointment, as this will help us manage demand and keep waiting times as low as possible. Getting both doses of the MenB vaccine before starting university or college is an important step in protecting yourself against this serious infection.”

More information about the MenB vaccination programme for young people can be found on NHS inform at www.nhsinform.scot/menb-youngpeople.

Contact:

Nisha Pawar

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740727