MenB vaccine plea

DUMFRIES and Galloway young people are being urged to receive the MenB vaccine, following concerns raised by a parent in the central belt.

Glasgow mum Gaynor Simpson has called on young people to come forward for the vaccination against meningococcal group B (MenB) , after her son Ross became critically unwell with meningitis in 2023.

The vaccine, which helps to protect against meningitis and sepsis caused by meningococcal group B Bacteria, is now being offered to young people in clinics across Scotland.

Young people born between March 1 2008 and February 28 2009, and any others who were in S6 during the 2025-2026 academic year regardless of future education plans, are eligible for the MenB vaccine.

Undergraduate university entrants under the age of 25 starting for the first time in 2026-27 academic year, including international students are also eligible. College entrants under 25 starting for the first time in 2026-27 while living away from home in shared student accommodation, including international students, are also invited to make an appointment.

Mum Gaynor, who is an ambassador for Meningitis Now said the vaccine has the potential to save lives.

“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,” she said.

“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,” Gaynor added.

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, please visit: www.nhsinform.scot/menb-youngpeople.