MMRV Vaccine - More information for Parents and Carers
MMRV Vaccination – Information for Parents and Carers
What is the MMRV vaccine?
The MMRV vaccine protects your child against four infections: measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox (varicella). It is given as a single injection and forms part of the routine childhood immunisation programme.
Who should receive the MMRV vaccine?
Children aged 3 years and 4 months up to under 6 years are offered the MMRV vaccine as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule. This replaces the MMR vaccine in the routine programme.
Why is MMRV recommended?
MMRV provides the same protection against measles, mumps, and rubella as the MMR vaccine, with added protection against chickenpox. Using a combined vaccine reduces the number of injections your child needs and follows national guidance.
If your child has already had chickenpox
Even if your child has already had chickenpox or a chickenpox vaccine, they should still receive MMRV. It is safe to do so and ensures full protection against measles, mumps, and rubella. Additional doses of live vaccines do not increase the risk of side effects.
Can parents request MMR instead of MMRV?
MMRV is the only vaccine offered as part of the routine childhood immunisation programme. MMR is now only used outside the routine schedule, for example, for older children catching up on missed vaccinations.
Is the MMRV vaccine safe?
Yes. MMRV has been thoroughly tested, is used safely worldwide, and is recommended by national health authorities.
What if parents choose to decline the MMRV vaccine?
If parents choose not to have the MMRV vaccine, this decision will be recorded in the child’s medical record. Parents will be advised that declining MMRV is outside the national immunisation schedule and not in line with national guidance.
NHS England guidance
NHS England guidance states that GP practices can only provide vaccinations offered as part of the national immunisation programme. Practices are not commissioned to provide alternative vaccines or schedules outside national guidance and are therefore unable to offer MMR instead of MMRV within the routine programme.
Further information
For reliable, evidence-based information, parents are encouraged to visit the Oxford Vaccine Knowledge Project or speak to a member of the clinical team.
A guide for Parents and Carers can be found here : MMRV vaccination - GOV.UK