AQW 42266/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Health
To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the chickenpox vaccine, including when parents can expect to be able to avail of it.
Asked by Kate Nicholl MLA on 11 March 2026
- Answered
- Written
- Tabled
- 11 March 2026
- Answer due by
- 27 March 2026
- Answered
- 27 March 202616 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Health
- Priority question
- No
Answer
A combined measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (chickenpox) vaccine was introduced into the childhood vaccination schedule from 1 January 2026. In line with advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccinations and Immunisations, the MMRV vaccine replaced the MMR vaccine and is now being offered to children at 12 months and 18 months of age.
There will also be a selective catch-up programme for MMRV, for children under the age of 6 years old, without a history of chickenpox. This is due to commence from November 2026.