Johnson & Johnson promises vaccine data "soon"

Johnson & Johnson said on Tuesday it would share details from its widely watched coronavirus vaccine trial soon, as the healthcare conglomerate races to develop a potential single-dose vaccine for COVID-19.

Data from Johnson & Johnson’s single-dose COVID-19 shot is expected this month, with global hopes to battle the virus riding on multiple vaccines to ensure adequate supply.

In the latest setback to the effort, rival Merck & Co said on Monday it was discontinuing development of both its COVID-19 vaccines.

Johnson & Johnson also forecast 2021 adjusted profit of between $9.40 and $9.60 per share after its fourth-quarter sales rose to $22.48 billion from $20.75 billion.