Cangene, Canada's leading biotechnology company, has been awarded a contract to supply Vaccinia Immune Globulin Intravenous (Human) to the UK Department of Health. The approximately $17 million Cdn contract was awarded to Cangene by the UK Government. Cangene expects to complete delivery by the end of its 2006 fiscal year. Cangene, in conjunction with its sales agents, is also in discussions with other foreign governments regarding a supply of VIG.

"As well as some smaller orders, this is the third significant government purchase of this product, which was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration," Dr. John Langstaff, president and chief executive officer of Cangene said adding, "As countries around the world consider implementing smallpox vaccination or stockpiling programs, the market for this product could grow".

VIG is a hyperimmune product to be used in treating and preventing a type of severe reaction that may be brought on by administration of the smallpox vaccine, and is considered to be an important component of smallpox vaccination programs. Hyperimmunes are highly purified specialty antibodies made from human plasma. Cangene is a world leader in developing and manufacturing hyperimmune products; VIG is part of a growing product pipeline that now includes three approved products.

Founded in 1984, Cangene, headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, carries out research and development in Mississauga, Ontario and Winnipeg.