England Expected to Offer Free Chickenpox Vaccine to Half Million Children Annually

Starting January 2026, children in England will be offered a free chickenpox vaccine through the NHS as part of a new combined MMRV vaccine that also protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. This vaccination program aims to protect around half a million children annually, reduce school absences, and decrease the need for parents to take time off work, while also saving the NHS an estimated £15 million per year in treatment costs and £24 million in lost productivity. The chickenpox vaccine has been safely used internationally for decades and will help prevent severe complications such as swelling of the brain, strokes, and serious infections. Government officials, including Health Minister Stephen Kinnock and UK Health Security Agency representatives, emphasize the vaccine's role in creating the healthiest generation of children and supporting working families. Until now, the vaccine was only available privately for around £150 or to those in close contact with high-risk individuals. The rollout comes amid concerns over declining childhood vaccination rates and aims to integrate prevention efforts into routine healthcare to improve long-term public health outcomes.