Chickenpox Vaccine for Babies and Young Children: What Parents Need to Know Before Booking 

If your baby or young child has not had chickenpox, it is natural to wonder whether vaccination is right for them. While chickenpox is often mild, it can sometimes cause complications, particularly in younger children. Knowing what is available can make the decision feel a little easier. 

With the chickenpox vaccine now part of the NHS childhood schedule for eligible children, some parents may still have questions about when their child can have it, while others may be considering private vaccination. A pharmacist can explain the options and help you understand what may be suitable for your child. 

Is the Chickenpox Vaccine Now Available on the NHS? 

Yes. Since January 2026, the NHS has offered the combined MMRV vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox, as part of routine childhood immunisations. It is now used instead of MMR for children who are due their first or second MMR dose under the new schedule. 

Babies born on or after 1 January 2025 are offered doses at 12 and 18 months through their GP. Children born between 1 January 2020 and 31 August 2022 who have not had chickenpox or two doses of a varicella containing vaccine are also being offered a single catch up dose between 1 November 2026 and 31 March 2028. 

The NHS chickenpox vaccine page explains who qualifies and when. 

When Might Parents Choose a Private Chickenpox Vaccine Instead? 

A private chickenpox vaccine may be considered when a child is not eligible for the NHS programme, or when vaccination is being considered for another reason. 

Common situations that may prompt parents to ask about private vaccination include: 

• A child who is not eligible for the NHS chickenpox vaccination programme. 

• A vulnerable relative at home, such as someone with a weakened immune system. 

• Starting nursery or childcare, where chickenpox spreads easily. 

Your pharmacist will check your child’s age, health and full vaccination record first, including other private jabs such as Meningitis B, so that each dose fits safely around their routine NHS schedule.

How Does the Chickenpox Jab Work for Kids? 

Like the MMR vaccine, it uses a weakened form of the varicella virus to teach your child’s immune system to recognise and fight the infection. Two doses are usually given for the best protection. 

Most children have no problems afterwards. Some develop a sore arm, a mild temperature or a few spots in the weeks that follow. Because it is a live vaccine, it is not suitable for every child, including those with certain immune conditions, so a proper health check comes first. 

What Should Parents Check Before Booking? 

Check your child’s red book first. This shows which vaccines they have already had and helps avoid unnecessary doses. 

Note whether your child has had chickenpox before, any allergies, and how they are feeling on the day, as a child with a high temperature may need to wait. Planning a family holiday as well? Our travel clinic can review everyone’s vaccines in one visit, which saves a separate trip later.

Protect Your Child with a Chickenpox Vaccine at Ham Pharmacy Group 

If you are considering a private chickenpox vaccine for your baby or child, our experienced pharmacists can help. We offer private chickenpox vaccination at Ham Parade, Ham Common and Ham Village, with convenient access from Richmond, Kingston, Petersham and Teddington. We can check your child’s vaccination history, answer your questions and discuss whether the vaccine is suitable before going ahead. 

Thinking about vaccination for your child? Book your chickenpox vaccine consultation online today and choose a time that works for you.