A vaccination programme to protect young children against chickenpox is being rolled out across Wales from today (2 January).
All children aged between 12 and 18 months across the UK will now be offered the chickenpox vaccine, also known as the varicella vaccine, for the first time.
The move follows advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), which recommended the introduction of a universal varicella vaccination programme as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule.
Children will receive the chickenpox protection through a combined MMRV vaccine, which also covers measles, mumps and rubella, given in two doses at 12 and 18 months of age. A catch-up programme for older children up to six years old will follow later in 2026.
Chickenpox is a common viral infection that usually causes mild illness but can occasionally lead to more serious complications. Each year in Wales, more than 4,000 people visit their GP with chickenpox, and around 300 are admitted to hospital. In rare cases, complications can include bacterial infections, pneumonia or inflammation of the brain.
Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Jeremy Miles, said:
“I am pleased to see the chickenpox vaccine being rolled out across Wales from today. Evidence shows the vaccine is safe and effective and will help to prevent children becoming seriously ill. I would urge parents to take up the offer of vaccination and if they have questions to speak to their GP for further information.”
Wales’ Chief Medical Officer, Professor Isabel Oliver, said:
“Chickenpox is a very infectious disease. It is very common. Most children with chickenpox recover after about a week but some children have a more serious illness and need to be admitted to hospital.
“The MMRV vaccine protects your child against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox, saving lives and preventing complications from infection.”
Dr Christopher Johnson, Head of the Vaccine Preventable Disease Programme at Public Health Wales, added:
“The MMRV vaccine will now help protect children from four different infections – measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (chickenpox).
“Chickenpox is a very common virus that usually causes mild symptoms, but it can be extremely uncomfortable and, in some cases, very serious. The MMRV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against chickenpox. It has been used successfully in many countries for years, leading to fewer illnesses and hospitalisations.
“Making sure your child receives all their routine childhood immunisations is crucial for protecting their health. I strongly encourage all parents to take their children to their vaccination appointments when invited.”
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