| Research Triangle Park, N.C. (April 16,
2003)
Bayer Biological Products (BP) is aware of the extensive media coverage regarding the cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) around the world. We understand that there may be concern about transmission of the SARS virus through biological or plasma-derived products.
The virus currently hypothesized to be the cause of SARS is a Coronavirus. Coronaviruses are enveloped viruses that have a lipid membrane, or "envelope" that encases the virus particle. The manufacturing process for all Bayer BP products includes at least two inactivation or removal steps, including at least one inactivation step that very effectively inactivates enveloped viruses. These steps include:
- Solvent/detergent treatment
- Pasteurization, or heat treatment
- Extraction using acetone
- Incubation in acidic solutions
- A new viral inactivation technology utilizing Caprylate
As this issue unfolds and more information becomes available, Bayer BP will continue to work to provide the patients we serve with even greater assurance that our products maintain the highest possible safety profile
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements based on current assumptions
and forecasts made by Bayer Group management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors could lead to material
differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company, and the estimates given
here. These factors include those discussed in our public reports filed with the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and with the U.S. Securities
and Exchange Commission (including our Form 20-F).
The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements
or to conform them to future events or developments.
Contact:
Tricia McKernan
Bayer Biological Products
+1-(0)919/316-6316
E-mail: tricia.mckernan.b@bayer.com
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