EMA’s Emergency Task Force (ETF) has recommended updating COVID-19 vaccines to target the new SARS-CoV-2 variant XFG for the 2026/2027 vaccination campaign.

XFG is part of the JN.1 family of Omicron subvariants. Its circulation has increased worldwide since June 2025, peaking at 74% of infections genetically sequenced globally in October 2025, and it still remains prevalent among JN.1 subvariants although not consistently across all regions. Other variants co-circulating in Europe include NB.1.81, a JN.1-related variant, and BA.3.2, which is genetically distinct from the JN.1 family and is increasing in some countries.

In making its recommendation, the ETF consulted with the World Health Organization (WHO), international partners and marketing authorisation holders for COVID-19 vaccines. The ETF also considered a wide range of data, including data on the evolution of the virus, data on the effectiveness of vaccines containing JN.1/KP.2 and LP.8.1 strains, and data from animal…