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PFIZER TO PROVIDE $35 MILLION IN AID TO TSUNAMI VICTIMS

January 4, 2005

Drug giant Pfizer will provide up to $35 million worth of medicines and financial aid to help the victims of the recent earthquake and tsunami that have devastated countries in Asia and along the east coast of Africa.

Pfizer will donate $10 million to local and international relief organizations operating in the region, the drugmaker announced Dec. 29, 2004. The firm also will contribute approximately $25 million worth of healthcare products, including anti-infective drugs Zithromax (azithromycin), Zyvox (linezolid) and Diflucan (fluconazole).

Pfizer organizations in Asia already have begun donating company medicines and discussing logistical support issues with local health and relief officials, the firm said.

The World Health Organization has warned that tens of thousands of people could die from outbreaks of disease, including cholera and typhoid. Meanwhile, President Bush announced Dec. 29, 2004, the U.S. would provide an initial grant of $35 million to help victims. More assistance would be coming, Bush added.