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MMRV Vaccine - More information for Parents and Carers

Last Updated: Wednesday, 21 January 2026

  • MMRV (Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella [chickenpox]).
  • The vaccine will be given at 12 months and 18 months. There will also be a catch-up programme for children up to the age of six.
  • MMRV has a very good safety profile and has been used in other countries, including the United States since 2005, so this is not a new vaccine.
  • There will be two brands of the MMRV vaccine available; one is porcine-free for children who cannot have gelatine for religious reasons.
  • Parents may decline the MMRV vaccine, however no alternative will be offered, and we will be unable to provide the MMR vaccine alone.
  • The MMRV vaccine is safe to give to children who have already had chickenpox and/or who have previously received a private varicella vaccine.

A guide for Parents and Carers can be found here : MMRV vaccination - GOV.UK