Free Chickenpox Vaccine Available for Cork Babies from Next Week
Free chickenpox vaccine now available for Cork babies born after 1 October 2024 - contact your GP to book 12-month appointment from next Tuesday.
Cork parents can now access free varicella (chickenpox) vaccination for babies turning 12 months old from 1 October 2025, as the HSE adds the vaccine to routine childhood immunisations available through local GPs.
The Health Service Executive announced today that all babies born on or after 1 October 2024 will be eligible for the free chickenpox vaccine once they reach their first birthday. The vaccine becomes available as part of the standard childhood immunisation schedule offered by family doctors across Cork city and county.
Dr Chantal Migone, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at the HSE National Immunisation Office, said:
"We are delighted that the chickenpox vaccine is now part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule. 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 against chickenpox and also helps protect the wider community."
The timing proves particularly relevant for Cork families, with GP practices across the county preparing to offer the new service from next Tuesday. Parents are being advised to contact their local surgery to book appointments for babies approaching their 12-month milestone.
Dr Patrick Kelly from the Irish College of GPs emphasised the importance of maintaining vaccination schedules:
"If your baby is approaching their 12-month vaccines, contact your GP to book in. 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."
Healthcare professionals stress that whilst chickenpox might appear harmless, the infection can lead to severe complications requiring hospital treatment. Recent HSE data shows 75 children needed hospital admission for chickenpox-related complications in 2024 alone.
Dr Ciara Martin, Consultant in Paediatric Emergency Medicine and HSE national Clinical Advisor for Children and Young People, shared her clinical experience:
"I have seen infants and children who are very unwell because of chicken pox. Some have needed hospital admissions. The free chickenpox vaccine given at 12 months offers strong protection and will help to keep your child out of hospital."
Parents must bring their child's blue immunisation passport to each appointment and should ensure babies receive all recommended vaccines at 2, 4, 6, 12 and 13 months of age. Those uncertain about their child's vaccination history should contact their GP or practice nurse for guidance.
The new programme represents the first phase of chickenpox vaccination in Ireland. A second vaccine dose, combined with MMR as MMRV, will be introduced for children aged 4-5 years through the schools immunisation programme from 2029-2030.
Currently, no catch-up programme exists for babies born before 1 October 2024. Parents seeking additional information about the Primary Childhood Immunisation Programme can visit www.immunisation.ie.
