For most children chickenpox can be mild, but for others it can be serious and lead to complications and hospitalisation. From 1st January 2026, children will be offered protection against chickenpox in the NHS routine childhood vaccine schedule from 12 months old.
The chickenpox protection will be given in an MMRV vaccine, which also protects against measles, mumps and rubella, giving protection against 4 diseases in one.
The first dose of the vaccine will be given to children at their routine 12-month appointment and replaces the MMR vaccine. The second dose will be routinely given at a new 18 month appointment for children born on or before 31st July 2024, with those born before this date getting their scheduled dose at their 3 years, 4 month scheduled appointment.
Children who were born between 1st January 2020 and 31st August 2022 will be offered a single dose of MMRV from November 2026 as part of a catch up. For children over the age of 6 years, it is likely they have already had chickenpox and remain eligible for their MMR vaccine.
These changes are taking place in line with clinical advice on the best way to protect children and babies from infectious diseases.
Please continue to book your child’s vaccination appointments when you receive your invite from your child’s GP practice. If you would like any further information, please speak to your GP Practice.