MMR Vaccinations
New Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccination Programme in Wales
On 29 August 2025, the Welsh Government announced that a routine chickenpox (varicella) vaccination programme will be introduced in Wales from January 2026. This will become part of the national childhood immunisation schedule.
The decision follows advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), which recommended a universal two-dose programme using the combined MMRV vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella).
Chickenpox is a common but highly contagious illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus. While it’s usually mild, it can sometimes lead to serious complications, especially in babies, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Evidence from other countries shows that routine vaccination helps reduce the number of cases and prevents severe illness.
We will share more information and guidance for parents and carers over the coming months.
To read the full statement from Welsh Government, please visit: Written Statement: Introduction of a routine varicella (chicken pox) vaccination programme (29 August 2025) | GOV.WALES
The MMR vaccine is the safest, most effective way to help protect against measles, mumps and rubella (also known as German measles). Since it was introduced in 1988, these diseases have become rare in the UK. But sometimes outbreaks happen (especially measles outbreaks), when not enough people get vaccinated.
Measles, mumps and rubella are diseases which spread easily between people who haven’t had the vaccine. These diseases are usually mild, but can sometimes cause serious problems, including:
- meningitis (external link) (infection of the protective layer around the brain)
- encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and
- hearing loss.
Although children are offered routine vaccinations against Measles, adults who have not been vaccinated can also be at risk of catching Measles.
Checking your MMR vaccination status and booking a vaccine appointment
Anyone who hasn’t had their MMR vaccine can book an appointment or check their MMR vaccination status by calling their GP or walking into our Vaccination Centre, more information on where you can get your vaccine can be found here: Vaccination Pop-up Clinics - Aneurin Bevan University Health Board
"Measles is a very serious illness and the best form of protection is through vaccination. We would urge people to attend for a vaccine if they haven’t had one. This is important for individual health and preventing transmission across our communities.
Changes to the vaccine schedule
From 1 January 2026, children will have their second MMR vaccination appointment earlier, at a new 18-month appointment. This vaccine was previously given at 3 years 4 months.
Having the second MMR dose earlier has been shown to protect more children sooner.
This is part of other changes to the childhood immunisation schedule in Wales for 2025 and 2026.
Find out more by clicking the link below: Changes to the childhood immunisation schedule
A message from Prof Tracy Daszkiewicz, Director of Public Health for Gwent
“Measles is very serious and can be fatal. It can make children very sick and lead to further complications which could result in hospitalisation. The best form of protection is the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine. We are calling on all parents and guardians to make sure their children are up to date with their 2 MMR doses.”
Our local data shows a 94.7%* uptake for the first MMR vaccine however, only 88.4% have gone on to have their second dose. It is important that all children have the full course of the MMR vaccine to ensure they are protected from serious illness.
It is never too late to catch up on the MMR vaccine whether you are a child or an adult. I would urge people to have the MMR vaccine, this is important for individual health and preventing transmission across our communities”.
Gwent residents can walk in to our Vaccination Centre to get their vaccination, call their GP or contact our School Nursing team.
Recognising Measles
Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, (e.g. a high temperature a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, a cough or red, sore, watery eyes) followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also get small white spots in their mouth.
If you suspect your child may have Measles please remain home and call your GP for an urgent appointment or call 111.
For further information on Measles please visit: 111.wales.nhs.uk/encyclopaedia/m/article/measles/