Free chickenpox vaccine to be rolled out for children from January 2026

Health experts say the new jab will help keep children from getting sick and missing days at nursery or school. It will also reduce the need for parents to take time off work to care for them.

The vaccine not only protects against these common illnesses but also helps prevent serious problems they can sometimes cause. These include infections such as strep A, as well as more serious conditions like brain swelling, lung infections and, in rare cases, strokes.

Guidance will be published to explain which age groups will be offered the vaccine and the best time to give it for the strongest protection.

As with other childhood vaccines, parents will be contacted by their GP if their child is eligible and invited to make an appointment.

Original article: Free chickenpox vaccination offered for first time to children - GOV.UK