Archive · 5 Sep 2025
California Faces Rising COVID-19 Cases and New Vaccine
COVID-19 is making a comeback in California.
A new version of the COVID-19 vaccine has been approved to fight the LP.8.1 variant, which is spreading.
The new vaccine is available in pharmacies and hospitals across the US.
It is designed to protect against the currently spreading LP.8.1 strain.
Public health officials are closely monitoring this new variant.
The new vaccine is available for those at higher risk of severe illness.
People with allergic reactions to past COVID vaccines should avoid it.
Everyone should still take precautions, even after vaccination.
COVID-19 cases are increasing in California.
The FDA approved a new vaccine for the 2025-2026 season.
The new vaccine targets the LP.8.1 subvariant.
Distribution of the new vaccine starts immediately.
Eligibility for the new vaccine is targeted.
- Who
- California public health officials and Pfizer
- What
- Rising COVID-19 cases and a new vaccine rollout
- When
- Vaccine distribution beginning immediately
- Where
- California, nationwide
- Why
- Address the spread of the LP.8.1 variant
- COVID-19 Positivity Rate (California)
- 12.1% (7-day average as of Aug. 23)
- COVID-19 Subvariant
- LP.8.1
- New Vaccine Purpose
- Combat LP.8.1
- Vaccine Availability
- Pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics nationwide
- Eligibility
- Adults 65+, individuals 5-64 with conditions