LEIDEN, NETHERLANDS -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 12/19/2005 -- Leiden, The Netherlands, December 19, 2005 - Crucell N.V. (Euronext, NASDAQ: CRXL) notes the announcement made by Berna Biotech AG yesterday of the request for due diligence information received from a third party, of which Berna had duly informed Crucell. Crucell would like to remind shareholders that Crucell’s offer is the only offer that has been made, it is recommended by the board of Berna, and confirms that Crucell remains committed to the proposed transaction. The combination of Berna and Crucell would create the leading independent vaccine company, offering: * World-leading technology complemented by existing marketed products; * A share in the potential upside for existing Berna shareholders; * High likelihood of a successful integration, which is already being constructively planned; * A management structure combining the best of both companies; and * Preservation of 100 years of Swiss vaccine experience and Berna’s identity. A further announcement will be made when appropriate.
