The UK is poised to strengthen its defenses against preventable diseases in children, with upcoming changes to the General Practitioner (GP) contract designed to boost vaccination rates and protect vulnerable populations. The move comes as the nation grapples with outbreaks of diseases like measles and faces challenges in meeting World Health Organization (WHO) vaccination targets.
Under the revised contract, set to take effect in 2026/27, GPs will receive additional support to improve vaccination delivery, particularly in areas where uptake is low. This shift in focus aims to address inequalities in healthcare access and ensure more children are shielded from potentially life-threatening illnesses. The changes recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach to vaccination incentives isn’t effective, and that practices serving communities with the greatest need often struggle to meet existing targets.
Addressing Declining Vaccination Rates
The need for this intervention is underscored by recent data revealing a decline in childhood vaccination rates across the UK. In 2024, over 2,900 cases of measles were confirmed in England – the highest number recorded in decades – leading to the UK losing its WHO measles elimination status. The Observer reports that this resurgence of measles is raising fears of a potential increase in cases of post-infectious encephalitis, a rare but often fatal brain disease.
Currently, GP practices only receive additional payments if they achieve high vaccination rates. This system inadvertently penalizes practices working in challenging communities where uptake is historically lower, even if they demonstrate significant improvements. The new contract will introduce “improvement incentives” that reward progress, allowing practices to reinvest resources into outreach programs and follow-up care for unvaccinated children.
Expanded Vaccine Schedule and Outreach Programs
The updated GP contract will as well align childhood vaccination incentives with the latest national vaccine schedule. Notably, the NHS expanded its vaccination program on January 1, 2026, to include protection against chickenpox (varicella) for the first time. GOV.UK announced this expansion, which introduces a combined MMRV vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella) administered at 12 and 18 months of age.
Beyond childhood vaccinations, the contract also addresses the needs of older adults and care home residents. Primary Care Networks will be tasked with identifying residents who are overdue for routine vaccinations, and greater flexibility will be allowed in the collaborative delivery of flu and COVID-19 vaccines. The RSV vaccination program has been extended to all adults aged 80 and over, and residents of care homes for older adults, starting in April.
A £2 million pilot program will also empower health visitors to reach families facing barriers to vaccination, ensuring that more children receive the protection they need. Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating, “Vaccinations are safe and they save lives. The return of diseases we thought we’d defeated, with children in hospital is entirely preventable.”
Looking Ahead
These changes to the GP contract represent a significant step towards strengthening the UK’s vaccination infrastructure and protecting its population from preventable diseases. By focusing on equitable access and incentivizing progress, the government aims to reverse the decline in vaccination rates and safeguard the health of future generations. The success of these initiatives will depend on effective implementation and ongoing monitoring of vaccination coverage across all communities.
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Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about health and medical topics. It’s not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
