The Health Service Executive (HSE) has announced that the chickenpox vaccine will be available free of charge for all babies born on or after 1 October 2024.
The vaccine will be given at 12 months of age as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule offered by GPs. Previously, parents had to pay for it privately.
Dr Ciara Martin, Consultant in Emergency Medicine, called the announcement a “great celebration”. She highlighted that while chickenpox is often mild, it can lead to serious complications such as:
Skin infections
Viral pneumonia
Rarely, nerve and brain complications
Dr Martin noted that recent changes to the vaccination schedule made this the right time to add the vaccine: “It’s been a little slow to come through, that is true, but the focus is that we have it now ... it’s a safe vaccine.” She also warned that childhood vaccine uptake is currently 85–90%, below the 95% needed for herd immunity.
Dr Chantal Migone, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at the HSE’s National Immunisation Office, said she was “delighted” with the move: “While chickenpox is often seen as a mild illness, it can sometimes cause serious complications needing hospitalisation in children. Vaccination at 12 months gives babies important protection … and helps protect the wider community.”
Dr Patrick Kelly of the Irish College of GPs advised parents: “Getting vaccines on time, every time is the best way to protect your child. Your GP and GP practice nurse can answer any questions you have and make sure your baby gets everything they need at the right visit.”
Vaccines are scheduled at 2, 4, 6, 12, and 13 months.
The chickenpox vaccine is now part of the 12-month visit.
Parents should bring their child’s blue immunisation passport to each appointment.
