Vaccination Service
Teenage and Young People Immunisations
About vaccines offered to teenagers and young people
Young people are offered vaccinations to help protect them against vaccine preventable diseases like meningitis and cancers. These are delivered by the School Immunisation Team, usually in schools.
The following vaccines are offered to young people:
| Age | Vaccine type |
|---|---|
| Young people between 11 and 13 years old (S1) | HPV vaccine (Human papillomavirus) |
| Young people around 14 years old (S3) | MenACWY vaccine (Meningococcal bacteria A, C, W and Y) |
| Young people around 14 years old (S3) | DTP vaccine (Tetanus, Diphtheria and Polio) |
| Young people in primary and secondary school | Flu and Fluenz nasal spray |
| Young people who missed their childhood vaccine (catch up) | MMRV vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out what vaccinations I’ve had?
- To see your own vaccination records you should first contact your GP. They will have access to your records. If they you are not able to help you, please contact the School Immunisation Team by calling 0300 3033 229.
How do I give my consent for a vaccination?
- The School Immunisation Team works closely with schools to make the vaccination process as easy as possible for pupils and their families. Before each vaccination programme, consent forms are sent to the schools. Pupils take the forms home to talk about with the adults they live with, and then sign. You should return the form to school, even if you’re not going to have the vaccine.
Does the flu vaccine have porcine gelatine in it?
- Porcine gelatine is used in vaccines to keep them safe and effective while they are being stored. The nasal spray flu vaccine called Fluenz is the vaccine that is usually given to children. This is because it is quick, easy and painless. It may also be better at reducing the spread of flu in the community.
- If you do not accept medicines or vaccines that contain porcine gelatine, you can have a flu vaccine injection that does not contain gelatine. You may wish to speak to your local imam if you have any questions, or you can read the guidance from the British Fatwa Council: https://www.britishfatwacouncil.org/can-muslims-use-the-nasal-flu-vaccine-with-porcine-gelatine/
Contact Information
If you think you may have missed a vaccine or have any questions, please contact the School Immunisation Team on 0300 3033 229.
Interpretation services
Interpreting services at clinics
We can arrange an interpreter quickly if you need one. Interpreters are available in over 200 languages including British Sign Language. We use the LanguageLine app on iPads.
If you need an interpreter, please tell a member of staff when you arrive for your appointment.
Useful Links
- Vaccines for young people: https://www.nhsinform.scot/campaigns/vaccines-for-young-people/
- Young people, immunisations and consent: https://www.nhsinform.scot/care-support-and-rights/health-rights/communication-and-consent/young-people-immunisations-and-consent
- NHS inform immunisations: https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/immunisation/
Information in other Languages and Formats
- Vaccines for young people – https://www.nhsinform.scot/campaigns/vaccines-for-young-people#other_languages_and_formats

