The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) will now also offer protection against chicken pox (Varicella), Warwickshire County Council has confirmed.

Rollout for the vaccine - which protects against the four main highly contagious diseases in children - began on 1 January 2026.

Shade Agboola, director of public health at the local authority, said: "Please do come forward for the MMRV to help safeguard your child.

"The MMRV vaccination offers protection from chickenpox and the complications that come with the virus, which can cause skin infections, pneumonia and brain inflammation.

"Whilst this is the first time for the UK to have a combined vaccination, the chickenpox vaccine has been safely used for decades and is already part of the routine vaccine schedules in several countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia and Germany."

The childhood immunisation schedule has seen an update alongside the combined vaccine.

The first dose of MMRV is given at 12 months old, and a second dose six months later. A porcine gelatine-free alternative is also available.

The NHS is also offering a catch-up programme for children aged three years and four months up to six years, who have either not had chickenpox or have not received the chickenpox vaccine. The programme will run from November 2026 to March 2028.

Parents will be contacted by their GP surgeries about the vaccine. They are encouraged to check the NHS app for messages and to contact their GP with any questions or concerns.