Overview

• NHS England will introduce a combined MMRV jab at GP practices from January 2026, replacing MMR with two doses at 12 and 18 months for about 500,000 children a year.
• The move follows a 2023 JCVI recommendation, with the varicella vaccine long used in countries including the US, Canada, Australia and Germany.
• NHS guidance cites about 98% protection in children after two doses with no booster required, and UKHSA officials say the programme could be a life saver for severe cases.
• DHSC estimates suggest the rollout could save the NHS around £15 million annually and reduce about £24 million in lost income and productivity for families each year.
• Low vaccine uptake threatens impact, with 2024/25 data showing 91.9% of five-year-olds had one MMR dose and 83.7% had both, and health officials are considering catch-up options for younger children.