Interim Results Of Independent Evaluation Confirm That Microbix Biosystems Inc.' Flu Vaccine Technology Works

TORONTO, March 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - Microbix Biosystems Inc. announces that interim findings of an independent evaluation have confirmed that its proprietary technology delivers a significant increase in the yield of influenza virus used in the manufacture of flu vaccine.

The independent laboratory found that Microbix' technology results in more than a two-fold increase in the amount of human influenza virus produced through conventional industry methods. More experiments are scheduled, and the Company expects to announce final results in the near future.

Once this phase is completed, the study will focus on the application of the technology to avian flu virus, which should be completed this summer.

"We're pleased with these results to date showing that our technology holds the promise of being able to produce flu vaccine in greater quantities than ever before," said Microbix President and CEO William J. Gastle.

"When validated by the final results, this would be an important breakthrough because world capacity for the production of flu vaccine is inadequate today," Gastle stated. "Our technology would aid in more people being protected against influenza in the future. It would give vaccine manufacturers enhanced production yields to respond to widespread influenza outbreaks and new virus strains."

Microbix specializes in developing proprietary biological technologies and commercializing them through global partners. The Company has intellectual property in large market biotherapeutic drugs, vaccine technologies and animal reproduction technologies. Established in 1988, Microbix is headquartered in Toronto.

This press release contains forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements represent the Company's judgment as of the date of this press release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

CONTACT: visit www.microbix.com or contact: William J. Gastle, Presidentand CEO, (416) 234-1624 x 230