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Berlin – An adapted vaccine for the currently circulating virus variant JN.1 should be available for corona booster vaccinations in August. This was announced by the Ministry of Health (BMG) in Berlin.

From next week onwards, the preparation from the manufacturer Biontech, procured by the federal government, is to be delivered to pharmaceutical wholesalers for all age groups.

Practices could then order the Comirnaty vaccine from pharmacies by August 6 and have it delivered from August 12.

Vaccination remains an important pillar in protecting the population from coronavirus diseases, the ministry explained. This applies in particular to vulnerable people in risk groups.

The JN .1 subline KP.3 is currently predominant in Germany, accounting for around 55 percent. According to data from the week of June 24, the subline KP2 had a share of 23 percent.

There is currently no evidence that these variants cause more severe infections or different symptoms than other circulating virus variants, it said. In addition, they encounter a high level of basic immunity in the population through vaccinations and infections.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends that particularly vulnerable groups receive an annual booster vaccination in the fall. This should provide the best possible protection during the expected infection season.

The groups include people aged 60 years and over and those aged 6 months and over with an underlying medical condition that is associated with an increased risk of severe COVID-19. © dpa/aerzteblatt.de