The pivotal pediatric clinical study compared Q/LAIV to two trivalent formulations of MedImmune’s licensed seasonal influenza vaccine, FluMist^® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal) and met its primary endpoint.

Currently licensed seasonal influenza vaccines are trivalent, containing three strains (two strains of type A influenza,A/H1N1 and A/H3N2, and one B lineage strain).  However, as influenza B strains from 2 different lineages have circulated in recent years (B/Yamagata and B/Victoria), the quadrivalent vaccine contains four strains: A/H1N1, A/H3N2, and B strains from both of the B lineages.  The quadrivalent vaccine is designed to offer protection against a broader range of B strains, and its development demonstrates MedImmune’s commitment to innovation within the infectious disease area.

Data from the pediatric Phase 3 study were included in the supplemental Biologics License Application (sBLA) for a quadrivalent (four-strain) version of FluMist^® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal). The company submitted the sBLA early in the second quarter of this year.

This abstract will be available for viewing in the exhibit hall in the exhibit Hall B-1 from 12:15 until 2:15 on Friday, October 21, 2011 at the Boston Convention andExhibitionCenter.

Additional information about the 2011 IDSA conference can be found at http://www.idsa2011.org/

Important Safety and Eligibility Information for FluMist

What is FluMist^®?

FluMist is the first and only nasal spray flu vaccine approved in the United Statesto help prevent influenza and is indicated for the active immunization of eligible individuals 2 to 49 years of age against influenza disease caused by influenza virus subtypes A and B contained in the vaccine.  

Who may not be able to get FluMist?

You should not get FluMist if you: are allergic to eggs, gentamicin, gelatin, or arginine; have ever had a life-threatening reaction to influenza vaccinations; or are 2 through 17 years old and take aspirin or medicines containing aspirin–children or adolescents should not be given aspirin for 4 weeks after getting FluMist unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.

Children under 2 years old should not get FluMist because there is a chance they may wheeze (have difficulty with breathing) after getting FluMist.

Tell your healthcare provider if you: are currently wheezing; have a history of wheezing if under 5 years old; have had Guillain-Barré syndrome; have a weakened immune system or live with someone who has a severely weakened immune system; have problems with your heart, kidneys, or lungs; have diabetes; are pregnant or nursing; or are taking Tamiflu®, Relenza®, amantadine, or rimantadine.

They will decide if FluMist is right for you.

What are the most common side effects of FluMist?

The most common side effects of FluMist are runny or stuffy nose; sore throat; and fever over 100 degrees F.

Please see accompanying complete product information, including patient informationat www.medimmune.com.

For more information, please visit www.FluMist.com.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics arm for AstraZeneca PLC, has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at www.medimmune.com. 

#    #    #

of Annual Flu Vaccination and Knowing Vaccine Options

GAITHERSBURG, MD (Oct. 13, 2011) – Families are busy enough during the back-to-school season – new class schedules, countless extracurricular activities, and daily homework assignments – without having to worry about the flu. To help raise awareness about the importance of annual influenza vaccination as the recommended best defense against the disease, MedImmune, along with soccer legend and mom Brandi Chastain, today launched the second year of “When Will You Pick?,” a national education campaign that encourages all eligible family members this flu season to “Don’t Wait to Vaccinate!”

“My goal every year is to not to wait to vaccinate. As a mom, keeping my family healthy and active is at the top of my to-do list, so we make sure to get our flu vaccine as soon as possible every year,” Chastain said. “Make an appointment today with your doctor to help keep yourself and your eligible family members protected. Also, if your children’s school offers an in-school vaccination program, be sure to fill out and return consent forms so they can get vaccinated at school.” 

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all eligible Americans 6 months and older receive the flu vaccine, beginning as soon as the vaccine is available each year. Even though the 2011-2012 flu vaccine contains the same three strains as last year, the CDC encourages people to get vaccinated each year, regardless of whether the viruses in the vaccine have changed or not since the previous season because immunity can wane over time.

Seasonal flu vaccines, including the nasal spray FluMist^® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal), started shipping in August of this year. MedImmune expects to provide approximately 15 to 16 million doses of FluMist for the 2011-2012 influenza season.

FluMist is a nasal spray flu vaccine for eligible kids and adults 2- 49 years old. It starts fighting the flu where it usually starts — the nose. The most common side effects of FluMist are runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and fever over 100°F.

Parents and families can learn more about the importance of flu vaccination by visiting the campaign’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/dontwaitvaccinate, which offers tips to help stay healthy throughout the flu season, a quiz to test influenza knowledge, and one-of-a-kind campaign photos and videos featuring Chastain. Additionally, for everyone who “likes” the page, $1 (up to $50,000) will be donated by MedImmune to help support the nationwide flu vaccination education efforts of the non-profit organization, Families Fighting Flu. The campaign will also reach families through local events at school-located vaccination clinics across the country throughout the season, including Atlanta, Minneapolis, and Houston.

“Vaccination is the best defense we have against influenza. Families should make vaccination a priority every year,” said Dr. Anat Feingold, M.D., a pediatric infectious disease expert and mother of three. “Individuals should also take everyday steps to help prevent the spread of germs, such as washing their hands and covering their coughs, but vaccination is the most important protection step one can take.” 

An average of 5-20 percent of the U.S.population becomes ill with the flu each year, which can result in significant complications. Children between the ages of 2 to 17 are twice as likely to get the flu as adults and can spread the flu to family members. Not every flu vaccine option is right for everyone, so parents are recommended to talk to their doctor about which option is best for each eligible family member.

“MedImmune is committed to supporting the annual U.S. influenza vaccination campaign, starting as early as possible each year,” said Chris Ambrose, M.D., Senior Director of Medical & Scientific Affairs. “We are also thrilled to team-up with Brandi Chastain again this year to help share important messages about flu prevention with families across the country.”

Important Safety and Eligibility Information 

What is FluMist® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal)?

FluMist is a vaccine that is sprayed into the nose to help protect against influenza. It can be used in children, adolescents, and adults ages 2 through 49. FluMist may not prevent influenza in everyone who gets vaccinated.

Who should not get FluMist?

You should not get FluMist if you: are allergic to eggs, gentamicin, gelatin, or arginine; have ever had a life-threatening reaction to influenza vaccinations; or are 2 through 17 years old and take aspirin or medicines containing aspirin–children or adolescents should not be given aspirin for 4 weeks after getting FluMist unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise. 

Children under 2 years old should not get FluMist because there is a chance they may wheeze (have difficulty with breathing) after getting FluMist.

Who may not be able to get FluMist?

 Tell your healthcare provider if you: are currently wheezing; have a history of wheezing if under 5 years old; have had Guillain-Barré syndrome; have a weakened immune system or live with someone who has a severely weakened immune system; have problems with your heart, kidneys, or lungs; have diabetes; are pregnant or nursing; or are taking Tamiflu®, Relenza®, amantadine, or rimantadine.

They will decide if FluMist is right for you.

What are the most common side effects of FluMist?

The most common side effects of FluMist are runny or stuffy nose; sore throat; and fever over 100 degrees F.

Please see accompanying complete Product Information, including patient information at www.medimmune.com. 

For more information, please visit www.FluMist.com.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics arm for AstraZeneca PLC, has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at www.medimmune.com. 

###

MedImmune expects to provide approximately 15 –16 million doses of its trivalent (three-strain) nasal spray flu vaccine for the 2011-2012 influenza season through a variety of private health care practices, public health departments, school-located vaccination programs, military bases, and other venues. Healthcare professionals should refer to FluMist prescribing information for appropriate administration.

FluMist is indicated for eligible individuals 2-49 years of age. The most common side effects of FluMist are runny or stuffy nose; sore throat and fever over 100°F.

This year, flu vaccines contain the three strains recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and World Health Organization (WHO), including the 2009 H1N1 pandemic strain.

The CDC recommends that flu vaccine be administered to eligible recipients aged six months and older every year as soon as the vaccine becomes available. A MedImmune analysis looking at pediatric populations suggests that starting influenza vaccinations as soon as product is available (July – September) — months earlier than the typical influenza vaccination season — may help reach an additional 10.5 million children at already-scheduled healthcare provider visits.

“MedImmune is committed to supporting public health efforts to initiate seasonal influenza vaccination as early as possible each year, greatly widening the window of opportunity for vaccination,” said Steve Projan, Ph.D, MedImmune’s Senior Vice President, Research & Development. “The data show that vaccination with FluMist in the late summer helps protect against influenza throughout the influenza season, even into the late spring.”

FluMist is available in every state, except South Dakota, through the federally funded Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, which provides vaccines at no cost to eligible children. FluMist is also available on the Vaccine for Adults contract allowing state and local immunization programs to access the vaccine at the public-sector price for community vaccination programs focused on young adults and immunization of first-responders and healthcare workers.

Based on a nationally-representative sample of private insurance claims from approximately 50 percent of US patients, FluMist accounted for 34 percent of seasonal influenza vaccinations given to children two through 18 years of age during the 2009-2010 season. FluMist is covered by approximately 99 percent of private health plans which offer immunization benefits.

Important Safety and Eligibility Information for FluMist

What is FluMist^® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal)?

FluMist is the first and only nasal spray flu vaccine approved in the United States to help prevent influenza and is indicated for the active immunization of eligible individuals 2 to 49 years of age against influenza disease caused by influenza virus subtypes A and B contained in the vaccine.  

Who may not be able to get FluMist?

You should not get FluMist if you: are allergic to eggs, gentamicin, gelatin, or arginine; have ever had a life-threatening reaction to influenza vaccinations; or are 2 through 17 years old and take aspirin or medicines containing aspirin–children or adolescents should not be given aspirin for 4 weeks after getting FluMist unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise. Children under 2 years old should not get FluMist because there is a chance they may wheeze (have difficulty with breathing) after getting FluMist.

Tell your healthcare provider if you: are currently wheezing; have a history of wheezing if under 5 years old; have had Guillain-Barré syndrome; have a weakened immune system or live with someone who has a severely weakened immune system; have problems with your heart, kidneys, or lungs; have diabetes; are pregnant or nursing; or are taking Tamiflu®, Relenza®, amantadine, or rimantadine.

They will decide if FluMist is right for you.

What are the most common side effects of FluMist?

The most common side effects of FluMist are runny or stuffy nose; sore throat; and fever over 100 degrees F.

Please see accompanying complete product information, including patient information at www.medimmune.com.

For more information, please visit www.FluMist.com.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the worldwide biologics unit for AstraZeneca PLC (LSE: AZN.L, NYSE: AZN), has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. With an advancing pipeline of promising drug candidates, MedImmune strives to deliver life-changing products, a rewarding career to our employees and a tireless commitment to improving patient health. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at www.medimmune.com.

MedImmune abstracts to be presented at PAS regarding influenza include:

• Factors Associated with Increased Vaccination in 2009 H1N1 School-Located Influenza Vaccination Programs. Ambrose CS, et al. Poster Session: May 1, 2011 Time: 4:15 –  7:30 PM,  Exhibit Hall F, Board: 468

• The Impact of School-Located Influenza Vaccination Programs on Student Absenteeism: A Review of the US Literature. Hull, HF, et al. Poster Session: May 1, 2011 Time: 4:15 – 7:30 PM,  Exhibit Hall F, Board: 473

• An Integrated, Multistudy Analysis of The Safety of Ann Arbor Strain Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine in Children Aged 2–17 Years. Ambrose CS,  et al. Poster Session: May 1, 2011 Time: 4:15 – 7:30 PM,  Exhibit Hall F, Board: 465

• Evidence of Homosubtypic But Not Heterosubtypic Immunity in Children After Wild-Type Influenza Illness. Ambrose CS, et al. Poster Session: May 1, 2011 Time: 4:15 – 7:30 PM,  Exhibit Hall F, Board: 469

• Factors Associated with Increased In-Office Influenza Vaccine Coverage and Two-Dose Compliance Among Practicing U.S. Pediatricians. Toback, SL, et al. Poster Session: May 1, 2011 Time: 4:15 –  7:30 PM,  Exhibit Hall F, Board: 467

• Maternal Outcomes in Pregnant Women Receiving Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine. Toback, SL, et al. Poster Session: May 1, 2011 Time: 4:15 –  7:30 PM,  Exhibit Hall F, Board: 466

MedImmune abstracts to be presented at PAS regarding RSV include:

• RSV Prophylaxis: Chronologic Age, Number of Doses, and Timing of RSV Hospitalization. Griffin M., et al. Poster Session: May 1, 2011 Time: 4:15 – 7:30 PM, Exhibit Hall F, Board: 558

• Safety Profile, Immunogenicity, and Viral Shedding of MEDI-534, a Live, Attenuated Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Parainfluenza Virus Type 3 (PIV3) Vaccine in RSV/PIV3 Seronegative Children. Bernstein D., et al. Poster Session: May 1, 2011 Time: 4:15 – 7:30 PM, Exhibit Hall F, Board: 458   

• Burden of RSV Disease Among Infants 32-35 wGA in Outpatient Clinic Settings: The REPORT Study – Season One. Elhefni H., et al. Poster Session: May 1, 2011 Time: 4:15 – 7:30 PM, Exhibit Hall F, Board: 556

• Hospitalizations Associated with Respiratory Syncytial Virus Among Infants 32-35 Weeks Gestational Age: Season One of the REPORT Study. Elhefni H., et al. Poster Session: May 1, 2011 Time: 4:15 – 7:30 PM, Exhibit Hall F, Board: 557

• Distribution of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Subtypes A and B Among Infants Presenting to the Emergency Department (ED) with Lower Respiratory Tract Infection (LRI) or Apnea. Jafri H., et al. Poster Session: May 1, 2011 Time: 4:15 – 7:30 PM, Exhibit Hall F, Board: 559

Additional information about the 2011 PAS conference can be found at

http://www.pas-meeting.org/2011Denver/default.asp

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics business for AstraZeneca PLC (LSE: AZN.L, NYSE: AZN), has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. With an advancing pipeline of promising drug candidates, MedImmune strives to deliver life-changing products, a rewarding career to our employees and a tireless commitment to improving patient health. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at www.medimmune.com. 

#    #    #

“MedImmune is pleased to announce new research on school-located influenza vaccination programs and use of influenza vaccines in special populations,” said William Martone, MD, senior vice president of medical and scientific affairs at MedImmune. “We believe the data being presented at NIC will help the medical community explore innovative ways to prevent influenza in and outside of the medical home.”

MedImmune abstracts to be presented at NIC on school-located influenza vaccination programs include:

• Factors Associated with Increased Vaccination In 2009 H1N1 School-Located Influenza Vaccination Programs. Ambrose CS, et al. Poster Session: March 29, 2011 Time: 10 – 11 AM,  3 – 4 PM; Columbia Hall, Poster # 25171
• The Impact of School-Located Influenza Vaccination Programs on Student Absenteeism: A Review of the US Literature. Hull, HF, et al. Poster Session: March 29, 2011 Time: 10 – 11 AM,  3 – 4 PM; Columbia Hall, Poster # 25129
• Current Experience with School-Located Influenza Vaccination Programs in the United States:  A Review of the Medical Literature. Hull, HF, et al. Poster Session: March 29, 2011 Time: 10 – 11 AM,  3 – 4 PM; Columbia Hall, Poster # 25160

MedImmune abstracts to be presented at NIC on influenza vaccines in specific populations and/or groups include:

• A Post-Licensure Evaluation of the Safety of Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine in Individuals 5 to 49 Years of Age. Toback, SL, et al. Poster Session: March 29, 2011 Time: 10 – 11 AM,  3 – 4 PM; Columbia Hall, Poster # 25173
• A Postmarketing Evaluation of the Frequency of Use and Safety of Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine in Non-Recommended Children Less Than 60 Months of Age. Toback, SL, et al.  Poster Session: March 29, 2011 Time: 10 – 11 AM,  3 – 4 PM; Columbia Hall, Poster # 25166
• Factors Associated with Increased In-Office Influenza Vaccine Coverage and Two-Dose Compliance Among U.S. Pediatricians. Toback, SL, et al. Poster Session: March 29, 2011 Time: 10 – 11 AM, 3 – 4 PM; Columbia Hall, Poster # 25177
• Influenza Vaccination Attitudes and Beliefs Among U.S. Working Adults Attending Employer-Based Vaccination Clinics. Toback, SL, et al.   Poster Session: March 29, 2011 Time: 10 – 11 AM, 3 – 4 PM; Columbia Hall, Poster # 25163
• Maternal Outcomes in Pregnant Women Receiving Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine. Toback, SL, et al. Poster Session: March 29, 2011 Time: 10 – 11 AM,  3 – 4 PM; Columbia Hall, Poster # 25172
• Real-Time Assessment of the 2010-2011 Pediatric Influenza Vaccination Season. Toback SL, et al.  Poster Session: March 29, 2011 Time: 10 – 11 AM,  3 – 4 PM; Columbia Hall, Poster # 25176
• Trends in U.S. Pediatric Influenza Vaccination from 2006 to 2010. Toback, SL, et al. Poster Session: March 29, 2011 Time: 10 – 11 AM,  3 – 4 PM; Columbia Hall, Poster # 25161
• U.S. Pediatric Influenza Vaccination by Pediatricians and Family Physicians From 2006 to 2010. Toback, SL, et al. Poster Session: March 29, 2011 Time: 10 – 11 AM,  3 – 4 PM; Columbia Hall, Poster # 25174

Additional information about the 2011 NIC conference can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/events/nic/default.htm.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics business for AstraZeneca PLC (LSE: AZN.L, NYSE: AZN), has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. With an advancing pipeline of promising drug candidates, MedImmune strives to deliver life-changing products, a rewarding career to our employees and a tireless commitment to improving patient health. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at www.medimmune.com. 

#    #    #

“We are delighted that FLUENZ has received regulatory approval in Europe since influenza creates a significant medical and economic burden there and throughout the world. We hope that the availability of this nasal spray influenza vaccine with its novel mechanism of action will help reduce the spread of influenza,” said Alex Zukiwski, M.D., executive vice president and chief medical officer of MedImmune, the biologics unit of AstraZeneca.

It is expected that the FLUENZ vaccine will be initially available in select European markets for the 2012-13 influenza season.

The EC decision and CHMP positive opinion were reached after a review of data from 73 global clinical studies and US post-marketing studies of more than 141,000 subjects conducted in 38 countries. Study objectives included clinical safety and tolerability, clinical efficacy and effectiveness, and immunogenicity.

- ENDS -

NOTES TO EDITORS

About LAIV
Each dose of FLUENZ is formulated to contain three live attenuated influenza virus strains, which are weakened so as to not cause illness. The vaccine strains are selected annually by the World Health Organization (WHO) based on anticipated circulating influenza strains for the upcoming season.

The vaccine is administered by spraying into the nose where it induces protective immunity. In several clinical studies it has demonstrated superior efficacy in children 24 months to less than 18 years of age compared to traditional inactivated influenza vaccines that are injected. The most common adverse events for LAIV include runny nose or nasal congestion. The live influenza virus strains used in LAIV are cold-adapted, temperature sensitive and attenuated.

In the US, FLUENZ is marketed by MedImmune under the trade name FluMist (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal). FluMist was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2003. The seasonal vaccine is currently approved in five countries including the US and Canada.

About Influenza
Influenza is the most common vaccine-preventable disease in the developed world. According to WHO estimates, seasonal influenza results in three to five million cases of severe illness and up to half a million deaths globally each year, primarily among the elderly. Rates of infection are highest among children, with school-aged children significantly contributing to spread of disease to their families, communities and high-risk individuals.

Studies in several European countries have demonstrated that hospitalization rates associated with influenza are highest in young children including those without underlying medical problems (Weigl et al, 2002; Pitman et al, 2007; Gasparini et al, 2007; Lenglet et al, 2007; Jansen et al, 2007). Based on these accumulated data, many experts include young children among those at high risk for severe influenza disease and influenza-related complications (Heikkinen et al, 2006). 

Influenza also has socio-economic consequences related to both direct and indirect health care costs, including hospitalisation, work absence and loss of work productivity when either a caregiver or child is sick with influenza.

To date, seven EU countries (Finland, Austria, Estonia, Latvia, the state of Saxony in Germany, Slovakia and Slovenia) recommend routinely vaccinating young children against influenza with varying age limits. EU and Member State policymakers continue to evaluate data on the impact of influenza in children to best inform the potential expansion of recommendations.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the worldwide biologics unit for AstraZeneca PLC, has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at www.medimmune.com.

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, innovation-driven biopharmaceutical business with a primary focus on the discovery, development and commercialisation of prescription medicines. As a leader in gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neuroscience, respiratory and inflammation, oncology and infectious disease medicines, AstraZeneca generated global revenues of US $33.3 billion in 2010.  For more information please visit: www.astrazeneca.com.                           

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The Committee’s positive opinion is now referred for a final decision by the European Commission (EC).  The EC, which makes the decision whether to approve a new drug candidate for use in the European Union, typically decides within a few months of the CHMP issuing its opinion. 

“Influenza creates a significant medical and economic burden on Europe and throughout the world, and we are hopeful that the future availability and product characteristics of this novel nasal spray influenza vaccine will reduce the spread of influenza around the globe,” said Alex Zukiwski, M.D., MedImmune’s executive vice president and chief medical officer.

The positive opinion was reached after the CHMP reviewed data from 73 global clinical studies and US post-marketing studies of more than 141,000 subjects conducted in 38 countries. Study objectives have included clinical safety and tolerability, clinical efficacy and effectiveness, and immunogenicity.

NOTES TO EDITORS

 About LAIV
Each dose of Fluenz is formulated to contain three live attenuated influenza virus strains, which are weakened so as to not cause illness. The vaccine strains are selected annually by the World Health Organization (WHO) based on anticipated circulating influenza strains for the upcoming season.

 The vaccine is administered by spraying into the nose where it induces protective immunity. In several clinical studies it has demonstrated superior efficacy in children 24 months to less than 18 years of age compared to traditional inactivated influenza vaccines that are injected. The most common adverse events for LAIV are nasal congestion/rhinorrea, decreased appetite, headache, malaise and fever. The live influenza virus strains used in LAIV are cold-adapted, temperature sensitive and attenuated.

In the US, Fluenz is marketed by MedImmune under the trade name FluMist (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal). FluMist was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2003. The seasonal vaccine is currently approved in a further six countries including Canada.

About Influenza
Influenza is the most common vaccine-preventable disease in the developed world. According to WHO estimates, seasonal influenza results in three to five million cases of severe illness and up to half a million deaths globally each year, primarily among the elderly. Rates of infection are highest among children, with school-aged children significantly contributing to spread of disease to their families, communities and high-risk individuals.

Studies in several European countries have demonstrated that hospitalisation rates associated with influenza are highest in young children including those without underlying medical problems (Weigl et al, 2002; Pitman et al, 2007; Gasparini et al, 2007; Lenglet et al, 2007; Jansen et al, 2007). Based on these accumulated data, many experts include young children among those at high risk for severe influenza disease and influenza-related complications (Heikkinen et al, 2006). 

Influenza also has socioeconomic consequences related to both direct and indirect health care costs, including hospitalisations, work absence and loss of work productivity when either a caregiver or child is sick with influenza.

To date, seven EU countries (Finland, Austria, Estonia, Latvia, the state of Saxony in Germany, Slovakia and Slovenia) recommend routinely vaccinating young children against influenza with varying age limits. EU and Member State policymakers continue to evaluate data on the impact of influenza in children to best inform the potential expansion of recommendations.

 About MedImmune

MedImmune, the worldwide biologics unit for AstraZeneca PLC, has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at www.medimmune.com.

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, innovation-driven biopharmaceutical business with a primary focus on the discovery, development and commercialisation of prescription medicines. As a leader in gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neuroscience, respiratory and inflammation, oncology and infectious disease medicines, AstraZeneca generated global revenues of US $32.8 billion in 2009.  For more information please visit: www.astrazeneca.com

To help raise awareness about the importance of annual flu vaccination early in the season and support the expanded CDC recommendations, MedImmune, Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS), and the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) – along with Brandi Chastain – today launched “When Will You Pick?,” a campaign that emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated before the flu strikes with the message: “This Flu Season, Don’t Wait to Vaccinate!”

“My top priority is keeping myself and my family healthy and active all season,” said Brandi Chastain, international soccer legend and mother of two. “We know that vaccination is the best way to help protect ourselves against the flu, so we make getting a flu vaccine a priority each year, there’s no need to wait.”

Flu vaccine doses including the nasal spray FluMist^® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal) started shipping in July this year. FluMist is indicated for eligible individuals 2-49 years of age. This year, flu vaccines contain the three strains recommended by the CDC, including the 2009 H1N1 pandemic strain. The most common side effects of FluMist are runny or stuffy nose; sore throat and fever over 100°F.

Parents and families can learn more about the importance of flu vaccination by visiting the “When Will You Pick?” Facebook page at www.facebook.com/dontwaitvaccinate, which offers tips to help people stay healthy throughout the flu season, a quiz to test influenza knowledge, and one-of-a-kind campaign photos and videos, including vignettes with Brandi Chastain. For everyone who “likes” the Facebook fan page, $1 (up to $50,000) will be donated by MedImmune to help support the nationwide flu vaccination education efforts of the non-profit organization Families Fighting Flu. The campaign will also reach families across the country at WPS games and through local events in communities throughout the season, including Atlanta and Chicago among others.

“Vaccination is the best defense we have against influenza and it’s something families should make a priority every year, particularly with the universal CDC recommendation for all eligible individuals age 6 months and older receive a flu vaccine,” said Dr. Anat Feingold, M.D., a pediatric infectious disease expert. “In fact, visits to the doctor for back-to-school needs are the perfect opportunity to talk to your healthcare provider about flu vaccination. And if your children’s school offers in-school vaccination programs, be sure to fill-out and return consent forms so your children can get vaccinated while they’re in school.”

As many as 60 million Americans get the flu each year, and resulting complications can be significant. Children between the ages of 2 and 17 are twice as likely to get the flu as adults and are the main source for spreading the flu to others – including family members. No one vaccine is right for everyone, so talk to your doctor about which is best for each member of your family.

As a part of the campaign, MedImmune will be an official sponsor of WPS, the world’s premier women’s professional soccer league, and AYSO, a nationwide non-profit youth soccer organization that develops and delivers quality youth soccer programs to approximately 600,000 players. MedImmune will be the presenting sponsor of the 2010 WPS semifinal playoff series and the presenting partner of the “Defender of the Year” League Award.

“At MedImmune, we are committed to supporting active, healthy families,” said Peter Greenleaf, MedImmune’s president. “We’re very pleased to again partner with WPS, the AYSO, and of course Brandi Chastain, for the ‘When Will You Pick?’ campaign to help bring this important preventive health message to families nationwide.”

The campaign reminds families of one key soccer term, G.O.A.L., when thinking about seasonal influenza prevention:

• Get a seasonal flu vaccine every year for eligible family members. And if your child’s school has a flu vaccination program, make sure to complete and return the consent form.
• Options are available. Talk to your healthcare provider about what type of flu vaccine – the shot or the nasal spray – is right for you and your family members.
• Avoid germs and illness. Wash hands often, cover sneezes and coughs with a tissue or arm sleeve, avoid those who are sick, and keep yourself and family members home when sick.
• Lead a healthy lifestyle with plenty of sleep, proper nutrition, frequent exercise and plenty of liquids.

FluMist: Important Safety and Eligibility Information

What is FluMist (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal)?

FluMist is a vaccine that is sprayed into the nose to help protect against influenza. It can be used in children, adolescents, and adults ages 2 through 49. FluMist may not prevent influenza in everyone who gets vaccinated.

Who should not get FluMist?

You should not get FluMist if you: are allergic to eggs, gentamicin, gelatin, or arginine; have ever had a life-threatening reaction to influenza vaccinations; or are 2 through 17 years old and take aspirin or medicines containing aspirin.

Children under 2 years of age should not get FluMist because there is a chance they may wheeze (difficulty with breathing) after getting FluMist.

Who may not be able to get FluMist?

Tell your healthcare provider if you: are currently wheezing; have a history of wheezing if under 5 years old; have had Guillain-Barré syndrome; have a weakened immune system or live with someone who has a severely weakened immune system; have problems with your heart, kidneys, or lungs; have diabetes; are pregnant or nursing; or are taking Tamiflu^®, Relenza^®, amantadine, or rimantadine.

They will decide if FluMist is right for you.

What are the most common side effects of FluMist?

The most common side effects of FluMist are runny or stuffy nose; sore throat and fever over 100°F.

Please see accompanying complete Product Information, including Patient Information.

For more information, please visit www.FluMist.com.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the worldwide biologics unit for AstraZeneca PLC (LSE: AZN.L, NYSE: AZN), has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. With an advancing pipeline of promising drug candidates, MedImmune strives to deliver life-changing products, a rewarding career to our employees and a tireless commitment to improving patient health. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at http://www.medimmune.com/.

About Women’s Professional Soccer

The world’s premier women’s professional soccer league, Women’s Professional Soccer began play in 2009 and is dedicated to becoming the global standard for women’s professional sports. This year, the WPS includes seven teams: Atlanta Beat, Boston Breakers, Chicago Red Stars, FC Gold Pride from the Bay Area, Sky Blue FC (NJ/NY), Philadelphia Independence and Washington Freedom. MedImmune, the maker of FluMist, is a proud Official Sponsor of WPS. For more information, visit http://womensprosoccer.com or http://facebook.com/womensprosoccer.

About American Youth Soccer Organization

AYSO is a nationwide, non-profit youth soccer organization that develops and delivers quality youth soccer programs in a fun, safe environment based on AYSO’s Six Philosophies: Everyone Plays; Balanced Teams; Open Registration; Positive Coaching; Good Sportsmanship; and Player Development. Established in 1964, the organization has been the leader in establishing groundbreaking youth soccer programs in the United States and has paved the road for youth soccer. MedImmune, the maker of FluMist, is a proud Official Sponsor of AYSO. For more information, visit http://soccer.org.

 GAITHERSBURG, MD, July 23, 2010 – MedImmune announced today that it has begun shipping FluMist^® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal) to influenza vaccine distributors who service health care providers throughout the United States. 

MedImmune expects to provide approximately 15 million doses of its trivalent (three-strain) nasal spray flu vaccine for the 2010-2011 influenza season through a variety of private health care practices, public health departments, school-located vaccination programs, military bases, and other venues. 

 Earlier this year, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a panel of immunization experts advising the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded the recommendations for annual influenza vaccination to include all people aged six months and older. Please refer to the specific prescribing information for each manufacturers’ influenza vaccines as not all vaccines are indicated for all ages.

 The CDC also recommends that flu vaccine be administered to eligible recipients every year as soon as the vaccine becomes available.  A MedImmune analysis looking at pediatric populations suggests that starting influenza vaccination in August and September — months earlier than the typical influenza vaccination season — may help reach an additional 10.5 million children at already-scheduled healthcare provider visits.

 Global public health authorities have determined that this season’s vaccine will include the 2009 H1N1 pandemic strain among the three vaccine strains. Additionally, the ACIP voted in June 2010 to recommend that children younger than nine years who did not receive at least one dose of the H1N1 monovalent vaccine in the 2009-2010 season should receive two doses of the 2010-2011 trivalent seasonal vaccine. 

 “MedImmune is committed to supporting public health efforts to initiate seasonal influenza vaccination as early as possible each year, greatly widening the window of opportunity for vaccination,” said Alex Zukiwski, MD, MedImmune’s Executive Vice President, Clinical Research & Chief Medical Officer. “The public can be reassured that influenza vaccination with FluMist in the late summer helps protect against influenza throughout the influenza season, even into the late spring.”

 FluMist is available in every state, except South Dakota, through the federally funded Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, which provides vaccines at no cost to eligible children.  Based on a nationally-representative sample of private insurance claims from approximately 50 percent of US patients, FluMist accounted for 34 percent of seasonal influenza vaccinations given to children two through 18 years of age during the 2009-2010 season. FluMist is covered by approximately 99 percent of private health plans which offer immunization benefits.

 FluMist is now available on the Vaccine for Adults contract allowing state and local immunization programs to access the vaccine at the public-sector price for community vaccination programs focused on young adults and immunization of first-responders and healthcare workers.

Important Safety and Eligibility Information for FluMist

 Who may be eligible for FluMist^® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal)?

FluMist is a vaccine approved for the prevention of certain types of influenza disease in children, adolescents and adults 2-49 years of age. FluMist may not protect everyone who gets it. FluMist is for intranasal administration only.

 Who may not be able to get FluMist?

FluMist is not right for everyone. FluMist must not be given to: people with history of hypersensitivity to eggs, egg proteins, gentamicin, gelatin or arginine; people with life-threatening reactions to previous influenza vaccinations; and children and adolescents receiving aspirin or aspirin-containing therapy.  Children less than 24 months of age are not eligible for FluMist.

 The following people may not be able to get FluMist or may be able to get it only in certain situations: people with asthma or active wheezing, or children less than five years of age with recurrent wheezing; people with a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome; people with a weakened immune system; people with long-term medical conditions including heart disease, kidney disease, and metabolic diseases, such as diabetes; and pregnant women.

 If you or your child falls into one of these groups, their healthcare provider will decide if FluMist is right for you or your child.

 What are the most common side effects of FluMist?

Most common side effects included runny nose or nasal congestion, sore throat, and fever. For a full list of side effects, please see section 6.1 in the following product information.

Please see the complete product information, including patient information at www.medimmune.com.

 For more information, please visit www.FluMist.com.

 About MedImmune

MedImmune, the worldwide biologics unit for AstraZeneca PLC (LSE: AZN.L, NYSE: AZN), has approximately 3,300 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. With an advancing pipeline of promising drug candidates, MedImmune strives to deliver life-changing products, a rewarding career to our employees and a tireless commitment to improving patient health. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at www.medimmune.com.

“With the growing importance of influenza prevention, it is essential to better understand the current data on influenza vaccines as well as how best to provide them to children and adults in the United States,” said Alexander A. Zukiwski, M.D., executive vice president and chief medical officer. “The data being presented at the conference build on our extensive foundation of research and help advance innovative solutions for preventing illnesses that negatively impact the health of the U.S. population.”

 MedImmune abstracts to be presented at NIC on influenza include:

• “Parent’s Decision-Making for Immunizing Children Against Seasonal Influenza.” Flood, E.M., et al. Workshop in the Regency Ballroom VI: April 21, 2010 Time: 11:20AM.

• “Pediatric Office Characteristics and Activities Associated with Increased Influenza Vaccine Delivery.” Bhatt, P., et al. Workshop in the Centennial Ballroom I: April 22, 2010 Time: 9:20AM.

• “Relative Efficacy of Live Attenuated and Inactivated Influenza Vaccine in Children as a Function of Time Post Vaccination.” Belshe, R.B., et al. Poster Session in the Grand Hall: April 20-21, 2010 Time: 10 AM – 4 PM.

• “Preferences for Influenza Vaccines for Children: Do Children and Parents Agree?” Rousculp, M.D., et al. Poster Session in the Grand Hall: April 20-21, 2010 Time: 10AM – 4 PM.

• “High Inter-Office Variability in Pediatric Influenza Vaccination.”  Block, S.L., et al.  Poster Session in the Grand Hall: April 20-21, 2010 Time: 10AM – 4 PM.

•  “Case Reports on Maternal and Fetal Outcomes After Exposure to LAIV During Pregnancy.” Toback, S.L., et al.  Poster Session in the Grand Hall: April 20-21, 2010 Time: 10AM – 4 PM.

• “Elementary School-Based Influenza Vaccination Programs: Findings to Inform Pandemic Vaccination Campaigns.” Rousculp, M.D., et al.  Poster Session in the Grand Hall: April 20-21, 2010 Time: 10AM – 4 PM.

•  “What do Children Know About Influenza and Influenza Vaccines?”  Ryan, K.J., et al. Poster Session in the Grand Hall: April 20-21, 2010 Time: 10AM – 4 PM.

• “Real-Time Assessment of 2009-2010 Influenza Vaccine Utilization Among Practicing Pediatricians.” Carr, W., et al.  Poster Session in the Grand Hall: April 20-21, 2010 Time: 10AM – 4 PM.

•  “Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine and Reduction in Influenza-Associated Acute Otitis Media in Children 24-83 Months.” Block, S.L., et al.  Poster Session in the Grand Hall: April 20-21, 2010 Time: 10AM – 4 PM.

 Additional information about the 44^th National Immunization Conference can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/events/nic/default.htm

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the worldwide biologics business for AstraZeneca PLC (LSE: AZN.L, NYSE: AZN), has approximately 3,300 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. With an advancing pipeline of promising drug candidates, MedImmune strives to deliver life-changing products, a rewarding career to our employees and a tireless commitment to improving patient health. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at www.medimmune.com