The UK’s routine childhood immunisation schedule is comprehensive and excellent—it protects against some of the most serious infectious diseases. But at Bright Futures Health, we believe there are a few additional vaccines worth considering to give your child even broader protection. This article explores vaccines that aren’t part of the standard NHS schedule but that we recommend for preventative paediatric care.
The NHS Schedule and Beyond
The NHS provides brilliant protection, but it reflects a balance between the common vaccine-preventable diseases in the UK and cost-effectiveness across the whole population. As a parent, you may want to consider additional vaccines based on your child’s individual circumstances, travel plans, or your own preferences around prevention. That’s where we can help.
BCG (Tuberculosis Vaccine)
For many years, the UK gave BCG to all newborns. In 2005, the programme changed to a targeted approach, offering BCG only to babies at higher risk of tuberculosis exposure. However, this decision is now being reconsidered—and for good reason.
Why we recommend it: TB rates in the UK have been rising, and there are now concerns that the UK may lose its “low-incidence” TB status if current trends continue. TB remains a serious infection that can affect the lungs and other organs, and it’s becoming less predictable where cases will emerge. We recommend BCG for all children, not just those in high-risk groups.
BCG is most effective when given in the first few months of life, but it can be administered later if you choose. It provides good protection against severe TB and can be given at any age. If you’d like to discuss whether BCG is right for your child, book a vaccination appointment , and we can arrange this at a consultation.
Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine
Chickenpox is often thought of as a mild childhood illness, but complications can be significant. We routinely see children with chickenpox-related skin infections requiring antibiotics, and in rare cases, pneumonia and encephalitis occur. Beyond the medical risks, chickenpox typically means weeks off school or nursery—a real burden on working families.
Why we recommend it: Two doses of the varicella vaccine provide excellent, long-lasting protection. The vaccine is safe and highly effective. It has been standard in many developed countries for over 20 years—the USA, Australia, Germany, and many others include it in their routine schedules. In 2026, the UK started a routine varicella vaccination programme. If your child has not received the chicken pox vaccination and is not able to have a catch-up vaccination, then we strongly recommend two doses 1-3 months apart (depending on age).
Hepatitis A Vaccine
Hepatitis A isn’t common in the UK, which is why it’s not routine. However, it’s an important consideration in two situations: if your family travels abroad, or if you want broader protection against infections that can spread through food and water.
Current relevance: We’ve seen significant Hepatitis A outbreaks linked to contaminated food across Europe in 2025-2026. Families planning travel to Europe, the Mediterranean, or any area with lower sanitation standards may want to consider protection.
Why we recommend it: Two doses of Hepatitis A vaccine, given 6-12 months apart, provide long-lasting immunity. If you travel regularly with your children or want extra peace of mind, this is worth discussing.
Meningococcal B (MenB) Course (Booster) for Teenagers
The NHS provides MenB vaccination at 8 weeks, 16 weeks, and 1 year of age. This is excellent, but immunity wanes over time. As your child reaches their teenage years, particularly if they’re planning to start university, meningococcal disease becomes a renewed risk. You can read more in our guide to measles and vaccine-preventable infections in unimmunised children.
Why we recommend it: Teenagers and young adults in shared accommodation (university halls, boarding school) face a higher risk of meningococcal disease. Meningitis can develop very rapidly and is a medical emergency. A 2 dose course (booster dose) of MenB (Bexsero) in the teenage years—ideally before university—offers important additional protection when risk is highest.
We recommend discussing this with your child’s paediatrician around age 16-18 years, and certainly before they leave home for university.
Making Your Choices
These recommendations reflect our philosophy at Bright Futures Health: excellent prevention is about going beyond the minimum. We’re not suggesting that every child needs every vaccine, but we believe parents deserve clear information about options that fall within the preventive paediatric framework. Our well-child clinics are a great opportunity to review your child’s vaccination status and discuss any gaps.
All of these vaccines are safe, with side effects typically limited to mild local reactions or temporary low-grade fever. We’re happy to discuss any concerns or questions you have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why isn’t my GP offering these vaccines? A: Your GP provides the NHS schedule reliably. Additional vaccines require time and resources for individual consultation, so they’re typically available through private services like Bright Futures Health.
Q: Are these vaccines necessary? A: “Necessary” depends on your family’s circumstances and values. The NHS schedule provides excellent baseline protection. These additional vaccines further reduce the risk of certain conditions or situations.
Q: Can these be given alongside NHS vaccines? A: Yes, these can be given at the same time as routine vaccines, or scheduled separately. We’ll work with you to plan a schedule that suits your child and family.
Q: Are there any children who shouldn’t have these vaccines? A: Most children can safely receive these vaccines. Some specific medical conditions or allergies may require adjustments. We’ll discuss your child’s individual health history at your appointment.
Q: How much do these vaccines cost? A: Pricing varies by vaccine. We’re happy to provide a quote when you enquire.
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Next Steps
If you’d like to discuss which additional vaccines might suit your child, or would like us to make a personalised vaccination plan, we’d be delighted to help. Book a consultation now via our website at https://brightfutures.health or contact us at [email protected] or on 020 3633 2915.
Your child’s health is our priority. Prevention is always better than a cure.
