Young people across Greater Glasgow and Clyde are being urged to protect themselves against meningitis as they receive their exam results and prepare for the next stage of their lives.
Whether they are heading to university, starting college and moving into shared accommodation, or simply beginning life after school, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is encouraging eligible young people to take up the MenB vaccine this summer.
The MenB vaccine protects against meningococcal B bacteria, which can cause meningitis and sepsis.
These serious conditions can develop rapidly and, in some cases, be life-threatening or result in long-term health complications.
The appeal comes as many young people find out this week whether they have secured a place at university or college and begin making plans for the new academic year.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s public health team is highlighting the importance of completing the full two-dose MenB vaccination course before the start of term, when increased social mixing during Freshers’ Week and life in shared accommodation can increase the risk of infection.
As the vaccine requires two doses given at least 28 days apart, eligible young people are being urged not to delay getting their first dose. Maximum protection is achieved around two weeks after the second dose.
Meningococcal B bacteria spreads through close contact, including living in the same household, kissing, or sharing items such as drinks or vapes.
The campaign follows recent outbreaks of meningococcal disease in the UK.
Within Greater Glasgow and Clyde, eligible young people can attend any drop-in clinic without an appointment.
Importantly, they do not need to be a student at the universities hosting the clinics. Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria can simply turn up and be vaccinated.
Drop-in vaccination clinics are currently being held:
Mondays and Tuesdays – University of Strathclyde (Chaplaincy at Graham Hills Building) and Glasgow Caledonian University (Teaching Block), both 8.45am to 7.15pm.
Wednesdays and Thursdays – University of Glasgow (Level 3, Fraser Building) and the Piazza Shopping Centre, Paisley, both 8.45am to 7.15pm.
Additional drop-in clinics are planned this month at Clydebank Health and Care Centre, Port Glasgow Health Centre, Eastwood Health Centre, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Greater Easterhouse Supporting Hands, Kirkintilloch Town Hall, Renfrew North Parish Church and The Whiteinch Centre.
More information about these is available here: General Vaccinations – NHSGGC
The 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 their future education plans.
- Undergraduate university entrants under the age of 25 who are starting university for the first time in the academic year 2026-27, including international students.
- College entrants under 25 starting college for the first time in the academic year 2026-27 while living away from home in shared student accommodation, including international students.
Dr John O’Dowd, Interim Director of Public Health at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said:
“Exam results day is an exciting milestone for many young people as they start making plans for university, college, work or other opportunities after school.
“Whatever your next step, this is also a good time to think about protecting your health.
“Meningococcal disease is rare but extremely serious, and it can progress very quickly. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself.
“Because the vaccine is given in two doses at least 28 days apart, I would encourage anyone who is eligible to get their first dose as soon as possible so they can achieve maximum protection before the autumn.
“We’ve made it as easy as possible to get vaccinated through a network of walk-in clinics across Greater Glasgow and Clyde. You don’t need an appointment, and you don’t need to be a student at the university venues being used for these clinics. If you’re eligible, you can simply come along and get vaccinated.”
For more information, to check eligibility and view the full clinic schedule in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, visit: General Vaccinations – NHSGGC
