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The Scottish Government has launched a targeted programme to offer young people a free vaccine against meningococcal B disease (MenB).

Thousands of young people in Scotland are to be offered free vaccination against the disease ahead of the 2026-27 academic year.

The programme will start in July with two doses required for full protection.

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.

There is an increased risk of spreading the disease through close contact among large numbers of people, particularly in shared accommodation at universities.

Public Health Minister Maree Todd said: “Protecting the health of young people in Scotland is an absolute priority.

“We know that starting university or college especially moving into shared accommodation is one of the highest-risk periods for this disease, and we are acting now, ahead of the new academic year, following recent outbreaks.

“The MenB vaccine has a strong safety record and the evidence is clear that it works. I want every eligible young person in Scotland to come forward for both doses and take this important step to protect their health as they begin what is for many of them an exciting new chapter in their lives.”

The vaccine is open to young people born between March 1 2008 and February 28 2009, and any others who were in S6 during the 2025-26 academic year, regardless of future education plans.

It is also open to 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 are also eligible.

Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Gregor Smith said: “MenB can spread rapidly in shared living environments and can lead to serious disease.

“This targeted programme offers strong protection to those most at risk, and I would encourage everyone who is eligible to take up the offer, especially if you are heading to university or college for the first time.”