New Corona variant LP.8.1: What does that mean for Austria?

New Corona variant LP.8.1: What does that mean for Austria?

Österreich - In Austria, the Omikron sub-variant LP.8.1 has established itself as predominantly since April 2025. Data from wastewater measurements show that this variant, which comes from the JN.1 family, is on the rise. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), LP.8.1 is now classified as a "variant under observation". It was first identified in July 2024.

The virological assessments indicate that Lp.8.1 between March and April 2025 has risen to the dominant virus line worldwide, also in the USA, Great Britain and several EU countries. In Europe, it prevailed against the previously prevailing variant XEC. This sub-variant has six mutations in the spike protein, which enable more bond with the human ACE2 receptor and thus increase transferability.

symptoms and risk

The symptoms of infections with LP.8.1 are mostly mild and resemble flu-like diseases, with frequent occurrence of fever, runny nose, cough, sore throat and headache. In particular, healthy people usually experience a mild course, while older people and risk groups should exercise special caution.

Virologist Monika Redlberger-Fritz emphasizes that there is currently no epidemic, which is a calming sign in this Situation. Nevertheless, current studies show a pronounced humoral immune fermentation that means that antibodies are less effective against this variant.

vaccine adjustment for 2025/2026

Against the background of the increasing transferability and the immunoyal properties of LP.8.1, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) recommends adapting the COVID 19 vaccines for the 2025/2026 season. The aim of this measure is to improve the effectiveness of vaccines compared to current and future -dominating variants.

Vaccined candidates already tested based on LP.8.1, such as KP.2 and JN.1, show comparable protection effects. The adaptation of future vaccines is considered crucial in the fight against Covid-19 to ensure broad cross-reactivity compared to circulating and new immune-fluid variants.

relevance of the vaccination strategy

The EMA has granted the allocation of a simplified approval process for these adapted vaccines so that manufacturers can use existing quality and non-clinical data. This could make it easier to convert the vaccine selection for the upcoming winter season 2025/26.

The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) emphasizes that adjustments to the COVID-19 vaccines are necessary to ensure optimal immune protection. The already approved mRNA vaccines still offer protection against severe disease courses, but the neutralization ability is declining against newer variants. In this context, systematic recording effectiveness and immunogenicity after approval is essential.

With autumn, a time increased respiratory infections, the need for vaccinations becomes particularly relevant. Risk groups should be pointed out that refreshing vaccinations are offered and recently adapted vaccines have been available in Germany.