Starting January 2026, children in England will be offered a free chickenpox (varicella) vaccination as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule. This initiative aims to protect approximately half a million children annually and reduce the burden of chickenpox-related illnesses on the National Health Service (NHS).
What Is the MMRV Vaccine?
The new vaccination programme will introduce a combined MMRV vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chickenpox). Eligible children will receive this vaccine during their routine GP appointments at 12 and 18 months of age. This approach aligns with practices in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Germany, where the MMRV vaccine is already part of national immunisation schedules.
Why Is This Important?
Chickenpox is a common childhood illness that, while typically mild, can lead to serious complications such as bacterial infections, brain and lung inflammation, and stroke. The introduction of the MMRV vaccine aims to reduce the incidence of these complications and prevent hospitalisations. Additionally, the vaccine is expected to decrease school absences and the need for parents to take time off work to care for sick children.
Economic and Health Benefits
The rollout of the chickenpox vaccine is anticipated to yield significant economic benefits. Research indicates that chickenpox-related illnesses result in an estimated £24 million in lost income and productivity annually in the UK. Furthermore, the NHS spends approximately £15 million each year on treating chickenpox and its complications. By preventing these cases, the vaccination programme will alleviate pressure on healthcare resources and contribute to the overall health of the population.
Preparing Your Practice with Seal Medical
As the new chickenpox (MMRV) vaccine is introduced, GP practices and clinics will need to ensure they have the proper storage to keep the vaccines safe and effective. Seal Medical provides high-quality vaccine fridges that meet NHS standards, offering reliable temperature control for all your immunisation needs.
With the introduction of the chickenpox vaccine, practices may need to make space for an additional fridge to store this new stock. Seal Medical can help you assess your current setup and supply the right vaccine fridge to accommodate the new immunisation programme efficiently. Our fridges are designed to maximise storage while maintaining the strict temperature regulations required for vaccines, helping you stay compliant and ready for the rollout in January 2026.
By planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth integration of the new vaccine into your existing schedule, keeping your patients protected without disrupting your practice workflow.
👉 Shop our range of vaccine fridges now 👈
For more information on the topic - head the the GOV website.