The government is to launch chickenpox vaccination programme in England from January 2026, which will protect around half a million children each year. 

Eligible children will receive the vaccine during routine GP appointments, which protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox in 1 combined vaccine (MMRV). 

From January 2026, GP practices will offer eligible children the combined vaccine, as part of the routine infant vaccination schedule. 

The eligibility criteria for children will be set out in clinical guidance covering which age groups will get the MMRV vaccine and when, to ensure the most effective protection for children.  As with other childhood immunisations, parents will be contacted by their GP surgery to arrange an appointment if their child is eligible.