Second read-out maintains 94% level of efficacy, with a very early signal that it could outperform Pfizer’s rival mRNA candidate in preventing severe cases.

Russia says it will make the first deliveries of its $10-per-dose Sputnik V vaccine in January, while international regulators say vaccine trials should continue for as long as possible to generate longer-term evidence on their benefits and risks. A UK research body has stressed that drugs repurposed for COVID-19 also need to undergo thorough safety and efficacy testing as reports suggest the UK regulator could approve a vaccine within days.

Skin hygiene is one of several categories where Edgewell Personal Care has a “right to win" after 18 months of renovations, according to the company’s 20 November Investor Day presentation. The firm has doubled its production capacity and has plans for a “full suite” of product innovation to build on Wet Ones’ 60% growth in fiscal 2020.