/Daniel CHETRONI, stock.adobe.com
Berlin – A vaccine adapted for the currently circulating JN.1 virus variant is expected to be available for corona booster vaccinations in August. This was announced by the Health Ministry (BMG) In Berlin.
Starting next week, the medication from the manufacturer Biontech for all age groups purchased by the federal government will be delivered to pharmaceutical wholesalers.
Practices could then order the Comirnaty vaccine from pharmacies by August 6 and receive it from August 12.
The ministry explained that vaccination remains an important pillar in protecting the population against corona diseases. This applies particularly to vulnerable people from risk groups.
The JN .1 KP.3 subline is currently predominant in Germany, with a share of around 55 percent. The KP2 subline had a share of 23 percent according to data from the week of June 24.
There is currently no evidence that these variants cause more severe infections or different symptoms than other circulating variants of the virus, he said. In addition, they rely on high baseline immunity in the population through vaccinations and infections.
The Standing Vaccination Committee (STIKO) recommends that particularly at-risk groups of people receive an annual booster vaccination in the fall. The aim is to provide the best possible protection during the expected infection season.
The groups include people aged 60 years or older and people aged 6 months or older with an underlying condition associated with an increased risk of a severe course of COVID-19. © dpa/aerzteblatt.de