Protecting your child against chickenpox

Measles can make your child seriously unwell

Make sure they are up to date with their MMRV vaccines

Be Wise. Immunise against measles, mumps, rubella and chicken pox

From 1 January 2026, children have been offered the MMRV vaccine as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule, protecting against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox.

While chickenpox is often mild, it can cause serious complications. Children born from January 2025 will receive MMRV at 12 and 18 months. Those born between July and December 2024 get MMRV doses at 18 months and 3 years 4 months.

Children born between September 2022 and June 2024 get one MMRV dose at 3 years 4 months. A catch-up programme runs from November 2026 for eligible children aged under 6.

Your GP will contact you when your child is due. If you have any questions, speak to your GP practice.

Find out more about the MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox) vaccine

#BeWiseImmunise #HereToHelp

Published: Mar 5, 2026