The NHS chickenpox vaccine will become part of England’s routine childhood programme from January 2026, with ministers saying the combined MMRV jab will protect children from serious complications and reduce disruption for working parents. The plan follows expert advice to integrate varicella protection into the schedule and marks the first new addition to the routine childhood programme since 2015. Families can check the official childhood immunisation schedule here, and the evidence behind the decision in the independent committee’s recommendation here.
Officials expect around 500,000 children a year to be protected, with modelling suggesting savings of about £15 million annually in treatment costs and an estimated £24 million in reduced time off work. Private varicella jabs currently cost about £150 for a full course, but the NHS chickenpox vaccine will be offered through GP practices as part of the combined MMRV dose, which will in time replace the existing MMR at 12 and 18 months. Clinical information on chickenpox symptoms and risks, from secondary infections to rare but severe complications, can be found in official guidance here.
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Health leaders say the move is about prevention and practicality. Uptake across childhood vaccines has fallen short of the 95% target in recent years, underlining the importance of easy-to-access appointments and clear information for parents. The NHS chickenpox vaccine is intended to cut hospital admissions, keep children in nursery and school, and reduce the scramble for last-minute childcare when outbreaks occur. England’s wider immunisation and screening policy framework is set out here.
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