Starting January 2026, the NHS will begin offering a free chickenpox (varicella) vaccine to all young children in the UK as part of their routine immunisation schedule. Previously, the vaccine was only available free in limited cases (such as for those in close contact with vulnerable individuals), while most families had to resort to private healthcare or natural infection.
The new vaccine will be bundled with the existing MMR jab, forming the combined MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella) jab .It will be offered in two doses, administered at:12 months, and18 months of age .
Approximately 500,000 children are expected to receive this vaccine annually .
The vaccine offers around 98% protection in children, with about 75% protection in adults after two doses; further booster doses are not required .
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommended the rollout based on evidence that it will reduce hospitalisations and complications such as encephalitis, bacterial infections, and other rare but serious outcomes .
The Department of Health and Social Care highlighted that chickenpox leads to an estimated £24 million in lost income and productivity each year in the UK .
There are also concerns about declining childhood vaccination rates for other immunisations (like MMR)—now below herd immunity levels—prompting urgent preventative action .
Start Date January 2026
Dose Schedule Two doses at 12 and 18 months via MMRV
Target Group Young children across the UK
Coverage Expected ~500,000 children annually
Protection ~98% efficacy in children, ~75% in adults
No Boosters Needed Yes
Goals Reduce severe chickenpox, hospitalisations, sick days, and
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