MMRV Vaccine Explained: Measles, Mumps, Rubella & Chickenpox
From January 2026, a new vaccine called MMRV will be offered to children in the UK. It protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox in one jab.
This helps stop serious illness, hospital visits, and missed school days. It’s already used safely in countries like Canada, Germany and Australia.
Who can get it?
The number of doses and timings depends on when children were born.
Born on or after 1 Jan 2025:
- Dose 1: 12 months
- Dose 2: 18 months
Born 1 July 2024 – 31 Dec 2024:
- Had MMR at 12 months
- Offered MMRV at 18 months and again at 3 years 4 months
Born 1 Sept 2022 – 30 June 2024:
- Had MMR at 12 months
- One MMRV dose at 3 years 4 months
Children who already had chickenpox can still get MMRV.
Is the vaccine safe?
Yes. All vaccines have to pass safety tests before use. The MMRV vaccine has been used safely for more than 10 years in other countries.
Like all vaccines, there can be mild side effects such as:
- a sore arm
- a fever
- a mild rash
These usually go away quickly. If you’re worried about reactions, speak to your GP, practice nurse or health visitor.
How to get it
Your GP practice will contact you when your child is due. You can check which jabs your child has had in their NHS red book or the NHS App.
More information
Keeping vaccinations up to date protects your child and other children in your community.