13/01/2026
This month, the Government launched a chickenpox vaccination programme across the Uk , which aims to protect around half a million children each year
GP practices will offer eligible children a combined vaccine for measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) - the clinical term for chickenpox - as part of the routine infant vaccination schedule.
According to Government research, chickenpox in childhood results in an estimated £24 million in parental lost income and productivity every year in the UK, so it's hoped that the vaccine will mean children miss fewer days in nursery and school, so parents will not need to take time off work to care for them.
Lots more information on the vaccine can be found at the link in the comments. Please see your GP to check if your child is eligible and to discuss any concerns you may have.
