Sinovac Launches Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Anflu(R) for 2008-2009 ...( BEIJING Sept. 10 /Xinhua-- Sinova...)

BEIJING, Sept. 10 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Sinovac Biotech Ltd. (Amex: SVA), a leading provider of vaccines in China, today announced the market launch of Anflu(R), a seasonal influenza vaccine, for 2008-2009 Flu Season. Developed and manufactured by Sinovac, Anflu(R) is the only split influenza vaccine produced without preservatives in China. Sinovac is undertaking the sales and marketing program utilizing its established sales force to promote the adult dosage form of Anflu(R).

Utilizing the virus strain for the Northern Hemisphere recommended by the World Health Organization, Sinovac has commenced the production of Anflu(R) for the annual flu season based on its 2008-2009 production plan. The Chinese authorities have recently completed the review of the batch release process and approved the vaccine for launch. In August 2008, the China CDC issued the 2008 "Guidelines for Influenza Prevention and Control Technology" that highlighted the positive public health implications of receiving the seasonal flu vaccine, the target population and the extension of the vaccination duration. As an amendment to the 2007 version, the 2008 guidance expanded the recommended vaccination population to include people living in senior homes, nursing homes and chronic disease nursing facilities, along with childcare providers who are looking after infants less than six month in age.

Over the past year, Sinovac has expanded its manufacturing capacity with the construction of a pandemic influenza vaccine production line with annual capacity of 20 million doses using the grant from China's National Development and Reform Commission. The production line includes state-of-the-art automated production equipment along with an expanded packaging capability and affords Sinovac the ability to produce up to five million doses of Anflu(R). By leveraging the latest production technology, the quality of the Anflu vaccine will be enhanced.

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