WHO Advisory Group Recommends LP.8.1 as Preferred Antigen for COVID-19 Vaccines
Geneva, Switzerland – On 7-8 May 2026, the World Health Organization’s Technical Advisory Group on COVID-19 Vaccine Composition (TAG-CO-VAC) convened to assess the current landscape of SARS-CoV-2 evolution, vaccine effectiveness, and the implications for future vaccine antigen composition.
Following a comprehensive review, the group recommended that vaccine manufacturers use monovalent LP.8.1 as the preferred antigen for COVID-19 vaccines.
"Vaccination remains an important countermeasure and should not be delayed while awaiting updated vaccines."
Alternative Antigens Considered
In addition to LP.8.1, the advisory group noted that alternative antigens—such as XFG or NB.1.8.1—or other approaches designed to induce broad and robust neutralizing antibody responses against currently circulating variants may also be considered.
Monitoring and Future Guidance
WHO confirmed it continues to monitor genetic and antigenic evolution, immune responses, and real-world vaccine effectiveness to inform future updates. The advisory group emphasized that current vaccination programs should not be paused or delayed in anticipation of these updated formulations.