Germany updates COVID-19 vaccination guidelines for 2026/2027 season

The 2026/2027 COVID-19 vaccination season has commenced with several key changes regarding vaccine variants and target groups. For the first time, vaccines targeting two different virus variants are available. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended adaptations for the Omicron subvariant LP.8.1, while the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has proposed the XFG variant as the basis for the campaign.

Both the LP.8.1 and XFG variants are closely related and derived from the JN.1 variant. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) expects that vaccines targeting either variant will provide similar levels of protection against severe illness. In Germany, Pfizer/BioNTech mRNA vaccines adapted to LP.8.1 are being prioritized for individuals aged 12 and older until their expiration date on February 28, 2027. Following this period, XFG-adapted vaccines will be utilized for adolescents and adults.

Additionally, the Standing Committee on Vaccination (Stiko) has updated its recommendations, noting that there is no longer a necessity for healthy adults to specifically pursue three SARS-CoV-2 antigen contacts.