The FDA has approved four updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2026–2027 respiratory virus season, with each formulation targeting the JN.1-lineage XFG variant. The vaccines, produced by Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Novavax-Sanofi, are intended to improve protection against variants expected to circulate during fall and winter.
All four vaccines are approved for adults aged 65 and older, a group considered at increased risk of severe illness. They are also authorized for some younger people whose underlying health conditions increase their risk, although minimum ages differ by product.
Pfizer-BioNTech’s COMIRNATY is approved for eligible people aged five and older. Moderna’s SPIKEVAX is available to eligible individuals from six months of age, while its MNEXSPIKE vaccine is approved for eligible people aged 12 and older. Novavax’s NUVAXOVID is also approved for eligible individuals aged 12 and above. COMIRNATY, SPIKEVAX, and MNEXSPIKE use mRNA technology, while NUVAXOVID is protein based.
Health conditions associated with higher COVID-19 risk include chronic kidney, lung, heart, and liver diseases, as well as diabetes and obesity. Pregnancy may also increase risk. People should consult healthcare professionals to determine whether vaccination is appropriate for them.
Experts cited in the report said COVID-19 vaccines are updated because SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve. The XFG strain is prevalent globally, while the related SW2 variant has recently represented a significant share of cases in the United States. Although vaccine strains may not precisely match every circulating variant, specialists said the updated formulations are expected to reduce the risk of severe disease.
The vaccines are being introduced before the colder months, when respiratory infections often increase. Eligibility and recommendations may depend on age, health status, vaccine availability, and guidance from healthcare providers. People in close contact with high-risk individuals may also discuss vaccination, while broader access can vary according to public health policy and clinical advice.