UK has implemented routine vaccination for children against chickenpox

A universal chickenpox vaccination has been included in the routine childhood immunisation programme since January 2026 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland; given in a two-dose schedule at 12 and 18 months as part of the combined measles/mumps/rubella/varicella (MMRV) vaccine. New evidence on the burden of disease in the UK and on whether circulating varicella zoster virus reduces shingles cases in older adults has led to this new recommendation. The MMRV is an established vaccine with good evidence to its efficacy and safety, including demonstration of significant reductions in chickenpox-related mortality, morbidity and costs after universal implementation in other countries.