The UK is set to roll out a nationwide MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella) vaccination programme, aiming to protect children from four major infectious diseases. The initiative, guided by expert recommendations from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), marks a significant update to the country’s childhood immunisation schedule.
Universal Two-Dose MMRV Vaccine for Infants
Starting January 2026, all children in the UK will be offered a two-dose MMRV vaccine as part of the standard NHS immunisation programme. The first dose will be administered at 12 months, followed by a second at 18 months. This new approach replaces the previous varicella (chickenpox) vaccination structure, ensuring comprehensive protection early in life.
The JCVI’s decision follows extensive research and consultation that began in 2023. The Committee concluded that combining protection against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox into a single vaccine provides better efficiency and coverage while simplifying the vaccination process for families and healthcare providers.
Modified Catch-Up Programme for Older Children
While the initial JCVI recommendation included a broad catch-up plan, limited vaccine supply led to a refined approach. Under the updated strategy, children aged between 18 months and 5 years who have not received the varicella vaccine will be included in a universal catch-up programme. In addition, a targeted initiative will identify children between 6 and 10 years who have not had chickenpox or prior vaccination based on parental recall.
This modified structure aims to make the best use of available vaccine doses and maximise the programme’s overall health impact across different age groups.
Implementation and NHS Funding Support
The MMRV programme will be delivered through GP practices under the NHS’s essential vaccination services. These updates are incorporated into the 2025/26 GP contract following consultation with GPC England. As with other national immunisation programmes, regional commissioners will oversee coordination among key partners such as School Age Immunisation Service (SAIS) teams, Child Health Immunisation Service (CHIS) providers, and 0–19 vaccination teams.
Funding arrangements are included in the General Medical Services Statement of Financial Entitlements and supported by the Public Health Allocation provided to regional commissioners.
Vaccine Supply and Storage
The NHS will centrally supply the MMRV vaccines through the ImmForm website. Healthcare providers are advised to maintain only two weeks’ worth of stock to reduce wastage. Two vaccine brands will be used — Priorix-Tetra® (by GSK) and ProQuad® (by MSD) — both of which are clinically equivalent and interchangeable. Practices may choose Priorix-Tetra for children whose families prefer non-porcine options.
Updated Clinical Guidance and Training
Comprehensive guidance for healthcare workers will be provided in the UK’s “Green Book,” covering chapters on measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, and the national immunisation schedule. NHS staff involved in the vaccination drive will receive updated training materials and patient group direction (PGD) templates via GOV.UK. These resources will help practitioners administer the vaccines safely and effectively.
Educational and Patient Resources
New patient information materials are being developed to explain the MMRV programme in simple terms. Leaflets covering immunisations from birth through age five will be available free of charge through the Find Public Health Resources platform. Translated and accessible versions will also be offered to ensure families across the UK have equal access to vaccine information.
Reporting and Data Collection
All suspected side effects can be reported using the Yellow Card scheme. Additionally, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) will collect data on vaccine coverage through the COVER system. From 2026 onward, vaccination rates at ages two and five will be monitored to assess programme performance and public health impact.
This data-driven approach will help identify any gaps in immunisation and guide future policy adjustments to maintain strong community protection against these diseases.
Strengthening the UK’s Childhood Immunisation Framework
The introduction of the MMRV vaccine marks another step in strengthening the UK’s comprehensive childhood immunisation framework. By simplifying vaccine schedules and ensuring early protection against multiple illnesses, the government aims to reduce the incidence of these preventable diseases and ease the burden on healthcare services.
As the rollout begins, families are encouraged to stay informed, attend scheduled appointments, and consult healthcare professionals for any vaccine-related questions. This collective effort will help safeguard children’s health and sustain high vaccination coverage nationwide.