On August 27, 2025, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the FDA’s approval of updated 2025-2026 Covid vaccines, targeting the JN.1 lineage, but only for adults 65+ and those with high-risk conditions, ending universal access amid the XFG “Stratus” variant surge.
Vaccine Approvals
RFK Jr.’s FDA approved Moderna for ages 6 months+, Pfizer for 5 years+, and Novavax for 12 years+, but only for those 65+ or with conditions like cancer, diabetes, or obesity. This reverses prior guidelines allowing vaccines for all over 6 months, aligning with Kennedy’s anti-mandate stance.
XFG Variant Surge
The XFG variant, a hybrid of omicron strains LF.7 and LP.8.1.2, drives a late-summer 2025 surge, per CDC wastewater data, surpassing the NB.1.8.1 variant. Symptoms include fever, chills, and cough, with cases rising but below pandemic peaks, says Dr. Gavin Harris.
Access Barriers
Experts like Dr. William Schaffner warn of access issues: off-label use for non-high-risk adults costs $150+, pharmacies like CVS limit vaccines in states like Massachusetts, and unclear high-risk criteria complicate eligibility. The CDC’s ACIP, now led by Kennedy’s appointees, meets in September to finalize guidance.
Public Health Concerns
The American Academy of Pediatrics notes 58% of Covid hospitalizations from 2022-2024 were children under 4, urging vaccines for ages 6 months-2 years. RFK Jr.’s exclusion of healthy children and pregnant women raises concerns, as does potential insurance coverage gaps for off-label use.
Protective Measures
Dr. Schaffner advises high-risk groups to wear masks indoors and avoid crowded events. With 2024-2025 vaccines scarce, he suggests combining Covid shots with flu vaccines in September or October to maximize protection against the XFG-driven respiratory season.
