Dunstable children offered NHS chickenpox vaccine for the first time
This year, around 200 local children are expected to receive the vaccine as part of the initiative at Priory Gardens Surgery
Last updated 9th Feb 2026
Children in Dunstable are now able to receive the chickenpox vaccine through the NHS for the first time, as part of a new initiative at Priory Gardens Surgery.
MP Alex Mayer visited the surgery to see the team responsible for providing the vaccine to the town's children under 4 years old.
The surgery is hosting weekly vaccination clinics, with nurses Becky and Sarah administering approximately five jabs each week.
This year, around 200 local children are expected to receive the vaccine.
The new MMRV vaccine, which covers chickenpox, measles, mumps, and rubella, has been proven to offer around 97 per cent protection after two doses.
Chickenpox is frequently contracted in childhood but can sometimes result in severe complications requiring hospital treatment.
It' s said the vaccination reduces not only the immediate risks but also the chance of later-life shingles.
Nationally, around 4,000 people are hospitalized due to chickenpox each year, contributing to NHS costs of approximately £15 million.
Priory Gardens Surgery and other GPs in the area are reaching out to families via letter, phone, text, or email to organize appointments.
Dr Hannan said, “We are really pleased to be among the practices to deliver the NHS chickenpox vaccine locally. The introduction of the MMRV jab is a significant step forward in protecting young children from a virus that can lead to serious complications. By offering this as part of the routine NHS vaccination programme, we’re not only improving child health outcomes but also giving families reassurance, convenience and long-term protection for their children.”
Alex Mayer MP expressed gratitude for the team's efforts and highlighted the benefits for local families, saying, “I’m pleased to see lots of families are taking up the jabs to protect their children. Thank you to Becky, Sarah and the team. This will save families money, reduce time off school and work and could be a real lifesaver.”
Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the initiative as a historic milestone, explaining that the new NHS chickenpox vaccine would provide assurance and prevent parents from having to take time off work or pay for private vaccinations.
Starting from 1st January 2025, children born on or after this date will receive the MMRV vaccine at 12 months and then again at 18 months.
Phased arrangements and catch-up programmes are available for children born between 1st January 2020 and 31st December 2024.