Baby Vaccination Schedule UK: Every Jab from 8 Weeks to Preschool

The routine childhood vaccination schedule in the UK changed in 2025 and again from 1 January 2026, when the MMRV vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella and varicella, which is chickenpox) replaced MMR and an 18-month appointment was added. If a friend's older child had a different set of jabs, that is probably why.

What vaccines do babies have in the UK?

This is the NHS routine schedule for babies and young children in the UK:

Rotavirus vaccine is given as drops by mouth. Most other baby vaccines go into the thigh.

What changed in 2026?

• MMRV replaced MMR. From 1 January 2026, children are offered MMRV, which adds protection against chickenpox.
• A new 18-month appointment. Children born on or after 1 July 2024 have a fourth dose of the 6-in-1 and a dose of MMRV at 18 months. UKHSA's schedule lists no 18-month appointment for children born on or before 30 June 2024.
• The preschool visit depends on birth date. At 3 years 4 months, children born between 1 September 2022 and 31 December 2024 may also be offered MMRV, as well as the 4-in-1 booster.
• Pneumococcal at 16 weeks and 1 year. The first pneumococcal dose is now at 16 weeks, not 12 weeks.

If your child was born around the cut-off dates, the surgery works out which version of the schedule applies from their date of birth.

What vaccines are offered in pregnancy?

Three vaccines help protect you and your newborn:

Ask your midwife or GP surgery if you have not been offered them.

What should I do after my baby's vaccinations?

• After MenB at 8 and 12 weeks: the NHS advises giving liquid infant paracetamol to reduce the chance of a fever. Give 1 dose as soon as possible after the vaccination, a 2nd dose 4 to 6 hours later and a 3rd dose 4 to 6 hours after that. Use the dose on the packet or the one your nurse gives you.
• Expect some side effects. Swelling or soreness where the needle went in, a high temperature, tiredness, irritability and loss of appetite are common and usually get better within 1 or 2 days.
• Know when to get help. Our fever guide explains the warning signs that need urgent care, whether or not your baby was just vaccinated.

What if my baby misses a vaccination?

Book the next available appointment with your GP surgery. You do not usually need to start the course again. The practice can check your child's record and red book, and plan any catch-up doses. Vaccinations are free on the NHS, and you can ask the nurse questions at the appointment.

Are vaccines safe for babies?

All vaccines in the UK programme are licensed after safety testing and are monitored once in use. Side effects are usually mild and short-lived. Serious reactions such as anaphylaxis are rare, and staff giving vaccines are trained to deal with them. If your child had a reaction to a previous dose, or has a condition affecting their immune system, tell the nurse before the appointment.