NHS Adds Chickenpox Vaccine to Routine Childhood Immunizations

The NHS vaccination program now includes chickenpox, or varicella, for the first time. GP practices will offer a combined MMRV vaccination to children at 12 and 18 months, protecting them against varicella, measles, mumps, and rubella.

Dr. Claire Fuller,national medical director for NHS England,stated,”This is a hugely positive moment for children and their families,providing protection against chickenpox for the first time and adding to the arsenal of routine vaccinations we give to children to safeguard them against serious illnesses.”

The combined vaccine will be available during routine childhood vaccination appointments, aiming to keep children healthier and prevent the spread of these highly contagious viruses.The new vaccine will also allow the health service to prioritize prevention and keep more children safe and in school.

Data indicates that half of all children contract chickenpox by age four, and 90% by age ten.The virus is highly contagious and causes a distinctive, itchy rash. Historically, some families hosted “chickenpox parties” to encourage infection and build immunity.

Children with chickenpox are typically excluded from school, and research estimates that childhood chickenpox results in approximately £24 million in lost income and productivity annually.