The French biotech's chances of competing with Aimmune's Palforzia in the peanut allergy market have been boosted after US regulators decided that a fresh Phase III trial for the Viaskin Peanut patch would not be required for resubmission.

COVID-19 has not held back GSK's preparations to create the world's largest standalone consumer health business, with CEO Emma Walmsley confirming separation is on track for summer next year.

The UK government says it is on track to vaccinate the 15 million most vulnerable people by mid-February, and that a “major study” is under way to assess the potential impact of the new UK variant on vaccine efficacy.