WHO Recommends LP.8.1 as Antigen for Next-Generation COVID Vaccines

The WHO's Technical Advisory Group on COVID-19 Vaccine Composition (TAG-CO-VAC) recommended on May 16, 2026 that LP.8.1 be the antigen for the next generation of COVID-19 vaccines, replacing the JN.1/KP.2-based formulations. XFG and NB.1.8.1 were listed as acceptable alternative antigens if they demonstrate broad neutralizing antibody responses. The recommendation reflects the emergence of new XFG-lineage recombinant variants now dominating global surveillance, with XFG.1.1 accounting for approximately 32% of sequenced U.S. cases. WHO emphasized that vaccination should not be delayed while awaiting reformulated vaccine availability.