Free Chickenpox Vaccine Offered to Children on Isle of Man
Chickenpox Vaccine to be Added to isle of ManS Free Childhood Immunization Program
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– Last updated october 26, 2023 at 05:43 GMT
Expanded Vaccination Program Details
The Isle of Man’s health department announced that a chickenpox vaccine will be added to the free combined vaccinations offered to children, protecting approximately 1,500 children annually. the vaccine will be available at General Practitioner (GP) practices across the island starting in January.
The initiative aims to reduce illness-related absences for both children and their parents, and also prevent serious health complications. Children aged 12 to 18 months will be eligible for the new combined measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) vaccine.
UK-Wide Rollout of MMRV Vaccine
This move is part of a broader rollout of the MMRV vaccine across the United Kingdom and its crown dependencies. Currently, receiving the chickenpox jab privately costs around £150.
statements from Manx Care and Public Health Officials
teresa Cope, Chief Executive of Manx Care, stated the program’s goal is to prevent severe cases and complications from the chickenpox virus, thereby reducing hospitalizations and other serious outcomes.
Matt Tyrer, the Isle of Man’s Director of public Health, emphasized that while chickenpox is often considered a mild illness, it can lead to serious complications, particularly in infants, young children, and adults. He highlighted that the vaccine provides “vital protection” and will help lower hospital admissions, healthcare expenses, and the future risk of shingles.