Immunisation is one of the best ways to protect your baby from diseases such as measles, rubella, tetanus and meningitis. Routine vaccinations start at two months of age and continue until 14 years. NHS.UK has a full list of the vaccines your child can have and the illnesses they protect against.
From 1 January 2026, all children turning one will be offered a combined MMRV vaccine. This protects against measles, mumps, rubella (German measles) and varicella (chickenpox). The vaccine is safe and effective. Getting vaccinated is important, as these conditions can lead to serious problems including meningitis, and hearing loss and problems during pregnancy. Varicella is commonly known as chickenpox and is a mild illness for most children, however it can cause serious complications including chest infection, fits and encephalitis. The varicella vaccine has been used in childhood vaccination programmes in other countries for many years.
For children born on or after 1 July 2024, a new 18‑month appointment will be offered. At this appointment, children will receive a fourth dose of the six‑in‑one vaccine. This vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough (pertussis), polio, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). This dose will now be given at 18 months instead of 12 months.
The 18‑month appointment will also allow the second dose of the MMRV vaccine to be given earlier. This helps protect children sooner against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox.
Children born between 1 July 2024 and 31 December 2024 will be offered two doses of the MMRV vaccine, one at 18 months and one at three years and four months.
Visit vaccination tips for parents to find things you can do on the day to help your toddler’s appointment go smoothly. Remember to bring your baby's personal child health record (PCHR) or 'red book' so your child's immunisations can be recorded.