New formula for a new variant
The FDA's Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee met on May 28 and recommended the 2026-2027 COVID-19 vaccines target the JN.1-lineage XFG variant. The committee determined this monovalent formula more closely matches currently circulating SARS-CoV-2 viruses than previous formulations. The FDA has advised manufacturers to prepare updated vaccines for a fall 2026 rollout.
Who should get the updated shot
Under the new guidelines, updated mRNA vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer will be recommended for adults aged 65 and older, and individuals aged 6 months and older with underlying conditions that increase risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. For healthy adults aged 18-64, the American College of Physicians suggests considering the vaccine based on personal risk assessment.
A shifting COVID landscape
The recommendation comes as COVID-19 continues to evolve into a seasonal respiratory virus pattern. Hospitalization rates remain far below peak pandemic levels but have shown small upticks with each new variant wave. The updated vaccine is expected to be available at pharmacies and clinics nationwide starting in September, alongside the annual flu shot campaign.