Chickenpox vaccine may begin in 2026 under new GP contract

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By Olivia Bowthorpe

Chickenpox vaccination could be added to the measles, mumps and rubella jab, as part of the new GP contract and begin as early as January 2026.

NHS England has suggested the addition of chickenpox (varicella) to the current MMR programme, subject to final ministerial approval, following a recommendation from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).