Irish babies to receive chickenpox vaccine under HSE schedule shake-up

Irish babies will receive a new chickenpox vaccine as part of changes to the HSE’s childhood vaccination schedule.

The new schedule applies to all babies born on or after October 1, 2024. This includes the introduction of the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine.

The changes in summary are:

At 6 months – withdrawal of the MenC vaccine dose
At 12 months – introduction of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine
At 13 months – replacement of the combined HIB/MenC vaccine with a 6 in 1 vaccine and a MenC vaccine at 13 months
There is no change to the number of GP visits required. They stay at 2, 4, 6, 12 and 13 months.

Dr Chantal Migone, consultant in public health medicine at the HSE National Immunization Office, said: “We are delighted that the chickenpox vaccine is now part of the routine childhood immunization programme, as recommended by the Committee national immunization advisory (NIAC). All babies born on or after October 1, 2024 will be offered the new childhood vaccination schedule, which includes the chickenpox vaccine at 12 months of age.

“Many parents might think of chickenpox as a mild illness, but for some babies, chickenpox and its complications can be very serious, leading to hospitalization in 170 cases last year and, in rare cases, even death. Adding the chickenpox vaccine to the routine immunization schedule will ensure the best protection for babies and far fewer severe cases of the disease.

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“Vaccination is safe, effective and essential for community immunity. One of the best things you can do for your baby’s health as well as the health of others is to make sure your baby is up to date on their vaccinations. Remember to bring your baby’s blue vaccination passport to each appointment to keep a record of each vaccine your baby receives. If you are unsure whether your baby has had all the recommended vaccinations, speak to your GP or GP nurse for advice. You can also check your child’s vaccination record with your local HSE health office,” concluded Dr Migone.

Tap here for more information on the primary childhood immunization program.