Mum urges young people to get MenB vaccine

A Glasgow mum is urging young people to come forward for vaccination against meningococcal group B (MenB), after her son became critically unwell with meningitis in 2023.   

The MenB vaccine, which helps to protect against meningitis and sepsis (inflammation throughout the body) caused by meningococcal group B bacteria, is now being offered for young people in clinics across Scotland.

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

Gaynor Simpson, mum to Ross who fell ill with meningitis during his first year at university in 2023, said:

“Ross became critically unwell after just feeling a bit under the weather. It quickly escalated into a situation where it was unclear whether or not he would survive. To see your healthy, thriving 18-year-old child go from feeling a bit off colour to fighting for his life in ICU within the space of a few hours is a feeling that we, as parents, will never forget. We are immensely grateful that despite the severity of the infection, he is still with us. It is a very long road to recovery from meningococcal disease and as we have seen from recent outbreaks in the UK, others are not so lucky.

“It is a cruel and unforgiving disease that takes effect at terrifying speed. Given our experience, I can’t stress enough to young people and to their parents how important it is to take up the full two-dose offer of the MenB vaccine. It could save your child’s life.”

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.

It’s essential to receive two doses of the MenB vaccine, at least 28 days apart, for full protection. Ideally, both doses should be completed before starting college or university.

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

Dr Sam Ghebrehewet, Head of Vaccination and Immunisation at Public Health Scotland, said:

“Immunisation is the most effective way of preventing illness from meningococcal disease. The roll out of the MenB vaccination programme is an opportunity for all eligible young people to receive vital protection from such a serious and life-threatening disease.

“We encourage all those who are eligible to take up the offer, and to ensure both doses are received for full protection.”

Read more about Gaynor and Ross’ experience on the Meningitis Now website

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

More information on signs and symptoms: 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