On this page, I will discuss how the NHS England is introducing the vaccine in January 2026, at what stage it will be given in childhood, and how effective it is based on evidence in studies. I will start off by discussing what chickenpox is, and what symptoms our patients often present with.
What is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a highly contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It mostly affects children and generally clears up on its own in 1 to 2 weeks, although it can be more serious for infants, pregnant women, or people with weakened immune systems. When I see patients with Chickenpox, common symptom I see include an itchy, spotty rash, fever, aches, loss of appetite, and overall discomfort. Occasionally, new spots appear even as others blisters scab over.
What Is the Chickenpox Vaccine and Who Can Currently Get It on the NHS?
The chickenpox vaccine, also known as the varicella vaccine, helps protect against infection. On the NHS, as of 2025, it’s only available to people who’re in close contact with someone at high risk of serious illness, such as newborns or immunocompromised individuals. At our practice, patients who meet this criteria are invited to get the vaccine. However, the NHS in England is planning to change who can get the vaccine very soon.
What’s Changing: NHS Plans from January 2026
Starting January 2026, the NHS in England will begin offering the chickenpox vaccine to all young children as part of their routine immunisation schedule. At GP surgeries, patients are usually automatically invited to have their routine immunisations. The current MMR vaccine will be replaced by the MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, varicella) combined jab.
- The jab will be administered in two doses, at 12 months and 18 months of age.
- A catch-up programme is also planned for children who missed other vaccinations.
This rollout is the largest expansion of England’s childhood immunisation programme in a decade—and the first addition since the MenB vaccine in 2015.
Why This Matters
- The chickenpox vaccine helps to significantly reduce illness, hospital stays, and school absences.
- The NHS estimates annual savings of £15 million in treatment costs, while improved attendance and productivity could save the economy £24 million.
Summary Table
| Topic | Summary |
|---|---|
| Chickenpox | Contagious childhood illness with itchy rash, fever, and general discomfort. |
| Current Vaccine Access | Only for high-risk contacts (e.g., pregnant women, immunocompromised). |
| From January 2026 | MMRV jab given at 12 and 18 months, via NHS; catch-up for older children. |
| Benefits | Highly effective, eases illness, protects school attendance, and saves money. |
Is the Chickenpox Vaccine effective?
After 2 doses, the chickenpox vaccine provides 98% protection in children and about 75% protection in adults.
If you get chickenpox after being vaccinated, you’ll usually have milder symptoms than someone who has not been vaccinated.
Who Should Not Get the Chickenpox Vaccine?
Most people can safely have the vaccine if they need it. However, because it’s a live vaccine (containing a weakened form of the virus), it isn’t suitable for everyone.
You should not have the chickenpox vaccine if you are:
- Living with a weakened immune system (for example, due to HIV or chemotherapy)
- Pregnant
- A baby under 9 months old
- Someone who has had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose or an ingredient (such as neomycin or gelatin)
- Someone who has had the MMR vaccine in the past 4 weeks or is due to have it in the next 4 weeks
⚠️ Important: If you receive the chickenpox vaccine, you should avoid becoming pregnant for 1 month after the final dose.
Can You Have the Vaccine If You’re Unwell?
If you have a high temperature or feel too unwell to do your usual daily activities, it’s best to wait until you’re feeling better before getting vaccinated.
This rollout marks a reassuring step forward. Soon, every child in the UK will have access to free, routine protection against chickenpox.
Feel free to share your experiences of Chickenpox, and whether you have had the vaccine in the comments section below. Stay up-to-date by reading my other health related posts, and don’t forget to subscribe!
References:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chickenpox/
https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/chickenpox-vaccine/
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c860n445vyxo
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