Students and school leavers across Greater Glasgow and Clyde, including Renfrewshire, are being urged to take up the Meningococcal B (MenB) vaccine, with the first drop-in clinics started on Wednesday 8 July 2026.
The time-limited vaccination programme is to protect those most at risk.
It comes ahead of the new academic year, with a particular focus on young people preparing to start university or college when increased social mixing and shared student accommodation can raise the risk of infection.
Meningococcal B bacteria can cause meningitis and sepsis, serious conditions that can develop rapidly and, in some cases, be life-threatening or lead to long-term health complications.
The bacteria is spread through close contact, including living in the same household, kissing, or sharing items such as drinks or vapes. Health experts are encouraging eligible students to be vaccinated before moving into shared accommodation.
- Drop-in clinics are being held on Wednesday 8th July and Thursday 9th July from 8.45am to 7.15pm at the Piazza Shopping Centre, Unit 28/29, Central Way, Paisley PA1 1EL
- A mobile vaccination unit for drop-ins is also at Notre Dame High School, Dunlop Street, Greenock PA16 9BJ, on both days between 10.00am and 4.00pm.
No appointment is necessary for these.
Further drop-in clinics are to be held at Glasgow Caledonian University; the University of Glasgow and the University of Strathclyde next week, and the Mobile Vaccination Unit will also visit West College Scotland’s Clydebank campus, with additional locations to follow.
For the full schedule, students and parents are advised to check the NHSGGC website here: https://www.nhsggc.scot/your-health/general-vaccinations/
The MenB vaccine is a two-dose vaccine and 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.
Dr John O’Dowd, Interim Director of Public Health at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “Starting university or college is an exciting milestone, but it can also increase exposure to infections due to close contact with new people and shared living spaces.
“Meningococcal is rare but extremely serious, and it can progress very quickly. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself.
“If you are eligible, I would strongly encourage you to take up the MenB vaccine as soon as possible, ideally before the start of term, to ensure you have the best possible protection.”
Eligible young people can attend any drop-in clinic without an appointment.
For more information and to check eligibility, visit NHS inform MenB information
