Vaccines have led to some of the greatest achievements in public health and are among the most cost-effective health interventions. Mass immunization programs have resulted in the global eradication of smallpox and the elimination of polio from the Western hemisphere, Europe, and much of Asia, while vaccines for diseases like measles, pertussis, and diphtheria have dramatically reduced childhood mortality worldwide. Despite the importance of vaccines and potential impact on public health, fewer pharmaceutical companies are investing in vaccine research. Within the last 30 years, the number of companies engaged in the discovery and development of vaccines has declined from 25 companies to five.

Merck is proud of our historical commitment to vaccine development. We are one of five vaccine producers remaining today, and we manufacture vaccines against chickenpox, measles, mumps, rubella, Hib, pneumococcal disease, and hepatitis B. Merck sees real opportunities for the future of vaccine discovery, development, and distribution of vaccines. Advances in science will lead to a new generation of vaccines and public-private partnerships are working to ensure that vaccine products reach those who need them most in developing countries. Merck is dedicated to continuing vaccine research efforts and working with organizations to improve the health care infrastructure needed to deliver vaccines.

Merck believes that positive actions in the following areas will assist in creating a more favorable environment for vaccine research and implementation:

• Increase societal recognition of the true value and importance of vaccines to public health
• Improve the infrastructure for delivering vaccines in the developed and developing world
• Ensure sustainable markets for new vaccines

Merck is committed to discovering, developing, and manufacturing vaccines. We are open to working with others to provide our vaccines to those who need them and to improve the environment for vaccines.