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Maida Talhami
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Pfizer to Provide Support to Relief Effort in Asia

Wednesday December 29, 2004

Pfizer to Provide $10 million in Funds to Relief Organizations; Company to Also Donate an Estimated $25 Million Worth of Medicines and Healthcare Products

NEW YORK, December 29 - The colleagues of Pfizer express their deepest sympathy and condolences to all those affected by the earthquake and tsunami that struck Asia and the east coast of Africa.

Pfizer today announced plans to commit medicines, funds, and logistical support to the relief effort following this catastrophic disaster. Pfizer will donate $10 million to local and international relief organizations operating in the region.   These will include the American Red Cross/International Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, International Rescue Committee, Catholic Relief Services, CARE, UNICEF, and Save the Children as well as local relief organizations.

Within hours of the disaster Pfizer colleagues began working with local governments and relief organizations to assess which of the company’s medicines are needed. As a result of these assessments, Pfizer will contribute approximately $25 million worth of the company’s healthcare products which includes the anti-infective products Zithromax, Zyvox and Diflucan.  Pfizer organizations in Asia have already begun donating Pfizer medicines and discussing logistical support issues with local health and relief officials.

“Pfizer is responding to this enormous tragedy through the donation of needed medicines, funds, and logistical support to assist both in the immediate relief and the longer term management of the disease and health risks,” said Hank McKinnell, Pfizer chairman and chief executive officer.  “In addition to our financial contribution and product donations, we are ensuring that Pfizer colleagues with the needed medical and technical skills are available to assist with the relief effort throughout the affected areas.”

The Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Program will match US employee contributions to non-profit organizations assisting in the relief effort.