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MMRV Catch-up Vaccination Programme
We are inviting eligible children to take part in the MMRV catch-up vaccination programme, which offers additional protection against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox (varicella). According to the UK Health Security Agency, children born between 1 January 2020 and 31 August 2022 may be eligible for a single catch-up dose of MMRV vaccine to help protect them against chickenpox.
The MMRV vaccine was introduced into the routine childhood immunisation schedule from 1 January 2026. Many children in this age group will already have received their two routine MMR vaccinations but will not have been offered MMRV as part of their routine schedule. The catch-up programme provides an opportunity to receive protection against chickenpox through a single MMRV vaccination.
Who is eligible?
Children born between 1 January 2020 and 31 August 2022 may be eligible if they:
- Have not previously had chickenpox, and/or
- Have not previously received two doses of chickenpox vaccine.
If your child has already had chickenpox or completed a chickenpox vaccination course, they are unlikely to benefit from this catch-up dose. However, the vaccine remains safe to receive if there is uncertainty about previous infection.
Why have the vaccine?
Chickenpox is a common and highly infectious illness that can occasionally lead to serious complications, including chest infections, seizures and inflammation of the brain. One dose of MMRV provides over 90% protection against chickenpox infection and around 99% protection against severe chickenpox disease.
MMRV Appointments
The catch-up programme runs from 1 November 2026 to 31 March 2028. Eligible families may be contacted by the practice by letter, text message, telephone or email. If you believe your child is eligible and have not yet received an invitation, please contact our reception team to arrange an appointment.
For further information about the programme, please speak to a member of our clinical team or visit the NHS website for information on chickenpox and childhood vaccinations.
Published: Nov 11, 2026