New Corona variant LP.8.1: Should we adjust to a wave?
New Corona variant LP.8.1: Should we adjust to a wave?
virologists warn of a possible increase in the COVID 19 case in the coming months, especially in autumn. This could be due to the spread of the subtype LP.8.1 of the omikron variant JN.1, which was first identified in Europe in mid-2024. In Austria, LP.8.1 was already detected by wastewater monitoring in July 2024 and has continuously spread since then. Lp.8.1 currently represents the dominant virus stem in Austria, as Oe24
lp.8.1 is characterized by high transferability and a pronounced immune ferocation, which means that protection is reduced by previous infections or vaccinations. Despite these properties, there are no evidence of serious disease courses in infections with LP.8.1. The typical symptoms resemble those of other variants and include fever and chills, sore throat, cough, fatigue, muscle pain, and in some cases also loss or taste loss.
Current situation in Austria
The situation in Austria is currently classified as "under control", even if a slight increase in evidence via the wastewater monitoring is determined. All federal states have now registered infections with LP.8.1, whereby the increase in Corona numbers can be observed, especially in Vienna. However, experts warn that the return of vacation trips, the start of school and seasonal effects is an increase in infection in late summer and autumn.
At the international level, Lp.8.1 is listed as one of two Sars-Cov-2 variants under observation. The other variant is XEC. The global prevalence of Lp.8.1 increases, but the public health risk is classified as low compared to other omicronous sublines. The WHO estimates that the recommended COVID-19-vaccines are still effective against LP.8.1, both in symptomatic and serious illnesses, such as Who determined.
vaccination strategies for the future
In view of the situation, Austria discusses the possibility of a new vaccine campaign with adapted vaccines from autumn 2025. The European Medicines Authority (EMA) recommends that vaccines to adapt for the 2025/26 season to protect particularly vulnerable groups. The majority of the population already has sufficient basic immunity through previous vaccinations and through infections, but refresh vaccinations are necessary for certain risk groups.- people ≥ 60 years
- people ≥ 6 months with relevant underlying diseases
- residents in care facilities
- Personnel in medical facilities with patient contact
- Family members of people without protective immune response
The STIKO recommends to carry out vaccinations from autumn, since the number of respiratory infections tends to increase during this time. Pull vaccinations should take place at least 12 months after the last vaccination or SARS-COV-2 infection. It is also possible to carry out influenza and pneumococcalic vaccinations at the same time. This information proves the need for continuous adaptation of the vaccination strategies in order to protect the population in the best possible way, such as rki
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| Ort | Wien, Österreich |
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