Routine chickenpox jab to be introduced in Wales in 2026
A new routine vaccination programme for chickenpox will be introduced in Wales from January 2026, the Welsh Government has announced.
Varicella, commonly known as chickenpox, is a highly contagious infection caused by the varicella zoster virus.
Most cases in children are mild, but the illness can sometimes lead to complications such as bacterial skin infections, encephalitis, pneumonitis and, in rare cases, stroke.
These complications may result in hospital treatment and, on rare occasions, death.
In November 2023, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommended that a universal varicella vaccination should be added to the childhood immunisation schedule.
It advised that the vaccine be given in two doses at 12 and 18 months of age using the combined MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella and varicella) jab.
Jeremy Miles MS, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Services, confirmed he has accepted the advice.
The programme will include a catch-up vaccination for children up to the age of six to prevent gaps in immunity.
NHS Wales will now finalise plans for the rollout.
The new vaccination will be introduced at the same time as wider changes to the childhood immunisation schedule, with an additional 18-month vaccination appointment from January 2026.
Mr Miles said the programme would help reduce cases of chickenpox and protect children from severe complications, while also easing pressure on the health service.
[Image: nhsinform.scot]
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