Children offered chickenpox vaccine on NHS
Summary
Starting in January 2026, all young children in England and Wales will be offered a free chickenpox vaccine through the NHS. The vaccine will be given in two doses, combined with the existing MMR jab, to protect against chickenpox, measles, mumps, and rubella. A catch-up campaign for slightly older children is also planned.Key Facts
- The chickenpox vaccine will be free for young children in England and Wales starting January 2026.
- The vaccine will consist of two doses given at 12 and 18 months of age.
- It will be combined with the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
- A campaign will be launched to vaccinate slightly older children who miss the initial offering.
- Previously, parents had to pay privately for the vaccine, which could cost up to £200.
- Chickenpox can lead to serious complications like brain swelling and pneumonia, though these are rare.
- The UK loses an estimated £24 million each year in income and productivity due to chickenpox.
- Experts believe the vaccine will greatly reduce chickenpox cases and their severity.
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