Chickenpox Vaccine finally omes to the NHS: What the new MMRV rollout means for every UK child
UK rolls out combined chickenpox MMRV vaccine for children nationwide
For the first time in UK history, all young children will be routinely protected against chickenpox on the NHS, as health authorities introduce the MMRV vaccine into the national childhood immunisation schedule from January 2026.
The move, led by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and backed by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), marks a major shift in public health policy after decades of reliance on natural infection rather than prevention.
Until now, parents who wanted protection against chickenpox often had to pay up to £200 privately. That changes with the nationwide rollout of the MMRV vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chickenpox) in a single jab.
Why the UK Is Introducing the Chickenpox Vaccine Now
Chickenpox has long been considered a mild childhood illness, but health officials say that assumption underestimates the real risks.
According to the UKHSA, chickenpox causes thousands of GP visits and hospital admissions every year, with complications ranging from severe skin infections to pneumonia, encephalitis, sepsis, and, in rare cases, death.
Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, deputy director of immunisation at UKHSA, warned that while most children recover, some suffer life-changing consequences, particularly babies, adults, and pregnant women.
Recent economic analysis also found chickenpox costs the UK an estimated £24 million annually in lost productivity, while vaccination could save the NHS £15 million each year in treatment costs.
What Is the MMRV Vaccine and How Does It Work?
The MMRV vaccine is a combined immunisation that protects against four serious viral diseases:
- Measles
- Mumps
- Rubella
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
The chickenpox component is highly effective, offering around 97% protection after two doses, with long-lasting immunity. The vaccine has been safely used for decades in countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, and Germany, all of which have seen dramatic drops in severe chickenpox cases.
Concerns that chickenpox vaccination might increase shingles cases later in life have not been supported by long-term international evidence, health experts say.
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Who Is Eligible for the Chickenpox Vaccine in the UK?
Eligibility depends on a child’s date of birth, with both routine and catch-up programmes planned.
Routine MMRV Schedule
- Children born on or after 1 January 2026
- Two doses at 12 months and 18 months
Catch-Up Programme
- Born on or after 1 January 2025: Two doses (12 and 18 months)
- Born July–December 2024: Two doses (18 months and 3 years 4 months)
- Born September 2022–June 2024: One dose at 3 years 4 months
- Born January 2020–August 2022: One dose offered later in 2026
Children aged six or older by the end of 2025 are generally not eligible, as most will already have had chickenpox.
Why the Childhood Vaccination Schedule Is Also Changing
The introduction of MMRV is part of a broader update to the NHS childhood immunisation programme, designed to protect children earlier and more effectively.
Key changes include:
- Replacement of MMR with MMRV
- Introduction of a new 18-month vaccination appointment
- Earlier second dose of MenB vaccine at 12 weeks
- A fourth dose of the 6-in-1 vaccine at 18 months
- Removal of routine Hib/MenC at 12 months, based on strong herd immunity
Health officials say these changes will reduce outbreaks, improve uptake, and strengthen community protection.
What Parents and Carers Need to Do
Parents do not need to apply for the vaccine. GP practices will contact families automatically when vaccinations are due via text, letter, phone, or email.
If a child is overdue and no contact has been made, parents are advised to contact their GP surgery directly to book an appointment.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the rollout as a “historic milestone”, urging families to take up the offer to protect children from a disease that still sends thousands to hospital every year.
FAQ
What is the chickenpox vaccine called in the UK?
It is called the MMRV vaccine, protecting against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox.
Is the chickenpox vaccine safe?
Yes. It has been safely used worldwide for decades and is recommended by the UK’s top vaccine experts.
When will my child get the chickenpox vaccine?
Most children will receive it at 12 months and 18 months, depending on date of birth.
Can older children get the vaccine?
Yes, eligible children under six may receive catch-up doses through NHS programmes.
Is chickenpox really dangerous?
While often mild, chickenpox can cause serious complications, hospitalisation, and rare deaths.
Do parents have to pay for the vaccine?
No. From January 2026, it is free on the NHS.
Will this replace the MMR vaccine?
Yes. MMRV replaces MMR in the routine childhood schedule.
Can adults get the chickenpox vaccine?
Adults can receive it privately, particularly if they’ve never had chickenpox.