Haleon set for slow start from weak flu season, with Middle East cushion

Haleon PLC's (LSE:HLN, NYSE:HLN) first-quarter sales at the end of next month come with analysts expecting a subdued start to the year due to a weak cough and cold season. Both Citi and UBS forecast organic sales growth of around 2.2% for the quarter, below consensus, due to a lower incidence of seasonal illness in Europe and North America weighing on respiratory product demand.