The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has released the updated Routine Childhood Immunisation Schedule, which came into effect from January 2026. The refreshed schedule outlines when children should receive key vaccines that protect against serious illnesses such as measles, meningitis, polio, and whooping cough.
This update ensures that children continue to receive the safest and most effective protection at the right time in their early development. We understand that there is lots of varied information around vaccination, our friendly team or nurses are happy to discuss any of your questions or concerns prior to vaccination. Should you wish to book an appointment or discuss the vaccinations further please fill in an online form.
Key Vaccines by Age
8 Weeks
Babies receive their first set of vaccines, including:
- 6‑in‑1 vaccine (protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Hib, and hepatitis B)
- MenB
- Rotavirus (oral vaccine)
12 Weeks
The second doses of:
- 6‑in‑1 vaccine
- MenB
- Rotavirus
16 Weeks
The third doses of:
- 6‑in‑1 vaccine
- Pneumococcal (PCV)
1 Year (on or after the first birthday)
Children receive boosters for:
- PCV
- MenB
- MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, varicella)
18 Months
For children born on or after 1 July 2024, the schedule includes:
- 6‑in‑1 booster
- MMRV Children born before this date do not require an appointment at 18 months.
3 Years 4 Months
Pre‑school boosters include:
- dTaP/IPV (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio)
- MMRV
12–13 Years
Boys and girls receive:
- HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) to protect against cancers and genital warts
14 Years (School Year 9)
Teenagers receive:
Seasonal Flu Vaccination
Annual flu vaccination is recommended for eligible children, with the nasal spray (LAIV) as the preferred option. If unsuitable, an inactivated flu vaccine is offered instead. This is usually offered from between September and March.
Selective Immunisation Programmes
Additional vaccines are recommended for:
- Babies born to mothers with hepatitis B
- Infants in areas with high tuberculosis (TB) incidence
- Children with certain clinical risk factors
- Pregnant women (flu, pertussis, RSV)