Coronavirus update: Pfizer strikes covid vaccine deal with US as Trump issues dire warning

Summary: Attention shifted to California on Wednesday, which topped former COVID-19 epicenter New York as the state with the most cases, with hopes growing for a successful vaccine as the pandemic tightens its grip around the country. The U.S. remains the global hotspot, with nearly 4 million of almost 15 million cases around the world. The country’s inability to get a handle on the crisis has amplified fears for the economy, and formed the crux of President Donald Trump’s remarks on Tuesday.