Introducing the New Pfizer KP.8.1 COVID-19 Vaccine: What You Need to Know!

Introducing the New Pfizer/BioNTech LP.8.1 COVID-19 Vaccine at Woodstock Road Chemist

We are pleased to announce that Woodstock Road Chemist is rolling out the latest Pfizer/BioNTech LP.8.1-adapted COVID-19 vaccine (Comirnaty® LP.8.1), designed for the 2025-2026 season. This updated vaccine better matches the currently circulating strains of SARS-CoV-2, offering improved protection to our community.

What Is the LP.8.1 Vaccine?

• Adapted formulation: LP.8.1 is a monovalent mRNA vaccine from Pfizer/BioNTech specifically tailored to target the LP.8.1 sublineage of SARS-CoV-2—one of the dominant strains in circulation.

• Regulatory approval: The vaccine has received approval in the U.S. from the FDA for adults aged 65 and above and for individuals aged 5–64 who have one or more underlying health conditions that put them at increased risk of severe COVID-19.

• Safety profile: Clinical trials and preclinical data show a safety profile consistent with earlier Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines, with no new safety concerns found in early studies.

Why Get the LP.8.1 Vaccine?

Key Benefits

Here are the advantages of getting this updated jab:

1. Stronger immune response against current variants
   The LP.8.1 vaccine has been shown to increase neutralizing antibodies substantially (at least 4-fold) in adults, especially older adults and people with risk factors, 14 days after vaccination.

2. Better matched to what’s circulating now
   Because SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve, vaccines that are tailored to newer variants tend to offer more effective protection. LP.8.1 is designed with this in mind.

3. Reduced risk of severe disease and hospitalisation
   Even if breakthrough infections happen, vaccination with updated formulations helps lower the risk of severe illness, hospital stays, and complications. While precise real-world effectiveness data is still being gathered, preliminary data is promising.

4. Boosting protection for high-risk groups
   Especially useful for older adults (65+) and people with underlying conditions—groups that tend to suffer the worst outcomes from COVID-19. The vaccine has been tested in these groups and shown robust immune boosting.

5. Helps with broader strain coverage
   Preclinical studies suggest that LP.8.1 gives a broader neutralizing response not only to LP.8.1 itself, but also improved neutralization of several related sublineages compared to older vaccine versions. This means better overall readiness for drifted strains.

Who Should Consider It and When

• People aged 65 and over.

• Individuals aged 5–64 with one or more underlying health conditions that increase risk of severe COVID-19 (e.g. chronic lung disease, cardiovascular disease, immunosuppression).

• Those who had their last COVID-19 vaccine dose several months ago, when immunity may have waned.

• Ideally, vaccination is recommended before winter or during periods of high COVID-19 transmission to ensure protection when risk is greater.

How to Get Your LP.8.1 Vaccine at Woodstock Road Chemist

• Book an appointment: Call us on [Insert Phone Number] or visit in-person.

• Walk-ins may be available—please check with the pharmacy.

• Bring your vaccination history if possible, so our team can confirm the best timing for your dose.

• We will provide after-care advice, including what to expect, side effects, and how to look after yourself.

Safety and Side Effects

• As with previous COVID-19 vaccines, the LP.8.1 vaccine may cause short-term side effects such as soreness at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, chills, or fever.

• Serious effects are rare; the vaccine’s recent trials did not identify any new safety concerns.

• If you have a severe allergy to any component of the vaccine, or had a severe reaction to a previous COVID vaccine, please discuss with your healthcare provider first.

Protect Yourself and Others

We are proud to offer the LP.8.1 vaccine here at Woodstock Road Chemist. This is more than just another booster—it is the latest tool to help protect you, your family, and our community against the evolving COVID-19 threat. Staying up to date with vaccinations is one of the best ways to reduce illness, hospitalisation, and long-term complications.

If you have any questions about the LP.8.1 vaccine or whether it is right for you, please contact us or drop in. We are here to help.

Private COVID-19 Vaccine: Available at Woodstock Road Chemist

.In addition to the NHS service, Woodstock Road Chemist is proud to offer private COVID-19 vaccinations. With the convenience of same-day appointments, maintaining your protection has never been easier.

Private Vaccine Details

•  Vaccine Brand: Pfizer: Comirnaty Omicron LP.8.1 30 micrograms/dose 
• Price: £85.00 (Reduced from £99.00 for a limited time)
• Eligibility: Suitable for individuals aged 12 years and over.

Note: This service is not suitable if you’ve had a COVID-19 vaccination in the last 3 months or have a history of allergic reactions to vaccines.

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Book Your Private COVID-19 Vaccine Today

We understand that you have a busy schedule, which is why we offer a convenient online booking system for our COVID-19 Clinic.

1. Choose a time slot that fits your schedule (use green arrows to navigate time columns)
2. Receive an instant confirmation of your appointment
3. Select Flu & Covid-19 Jab (£20.00 + £85.00) if you would like both vaccinations in one appointment

Remember, knowing the symptoms of COVID-19 and understanding the importance of vaccination is the first step towards a safer future. Join us in the fight against COVID-19 and the flu. Together, we can make a difference.