A Glasgow mother whose teenage son nearly died from meningitis is urging young people across Scotland to get vaccinated as a new MenB immunisation programme is rolled out ahead of the new college and university term.

The campaign is targeting young people preparing to begin higher or further education, where shared accommodation and close contact can increase the risk of meningococcal group B disease, a rare but potentially life threatening infection that can lead to meningitis and sepsis.

Health officials are encouraging everyone who is eligible to receive both doses of the vaccine before starting university or college to ensure they have the highest level of protection.

For Gaynor Simpson, the message is deeply personal after her son Ross became critically ill during his first year at university in 2023.

She 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 vaccination programme is open to young people born between 1 March 2008 and 28 February 2009, anyone who was in S6 during the 2025 to 2026 academic year regardless of their future plans, first time undergraduate university students under the age of 25 beginning in the 2026 to 2027 academic year, and college students under 25 who are starting for the first time while living away from home in shared accommodation.

International students who meet the eligibility criteria are also included in the programme.

The MenB vaccine is given in two doses at least 28 days apart, with health experts recommending that both doses are completed before students move into shared accommodation or begin their studies.

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.”