From January 2026 onwards, NHS Scotland introduces the new MMRV vaccination to the routine childhood schedule, which is to provide children with immunity from measles, mumps, rubella and chicken pox.
  

Scotland’s childhood vaccination programme is being updated following a detailed review by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). Public Health Scotland, working with the Scottish Government and NHS Boards, has introduced changes based on the latest scientific evidence to ensure children continue to receive the best possible protection from vaccine-preventable diseases. 
A key change is the introduction of the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine into the routine childhood schedule for the first time in Scotland. From January 2026, children will be offered a two-dose vaccination at 12 and 18 months of age, delivered through the combined MMRV vaccine. 

Evidence from other countries shows that routine use of the varicella vaccine significantly reduces the number of chickenpox cases in childhood. While chickenpox is often mild, it is highly contagious and can leave children unwell for several days, leading to time away from school or nursery. In some cases, it can cause serious complications requiring hospital treatment, especially when it affects children with weaker immune systems or pregnant women.  

Vaccination programmes are reviewed regularly to reflect new research and emerging evidence. Parents and carers will receive appointment invitations from local NHS immunisation teams and are encouraged to ensure their children attend as scheduled to benefit from this enhanced protection.