Merck Sharpe and Dohme announces new head of vaccines division

Merck Sharpe and Dohme, the global supplier of pharmaceutical products, has appointed a new head of its vaccines department, it has revealed.

Dr Julie Gerberding will take up the role from January 25th and will be responsible for the organisation’s $5 billion (3.1 billion-pound) global vaccine business.

She will be responsible for the commercialisation of the firm’s current portfolio of vaccines – which includes a wide range of products designed for paediatric, adolescent and adult use – as well as widening Merck’s efforts to increase access to its vaccines in developing countries.

Richard Clark, chairman and chief executive officer of the company, stated: “Dr Gerberding is the ideal choice to lead Merck’s engagement with organisations around the world that share our commitment to the use of vaccines to prevent disease and save lives.”

Meanwhile, last month Merck Sharpe and Dohme announced that the Food and Drug Administration approved ZEGERID OTC (omeprazole 20 mg/sodium bicarbonate 1100 mg capsules), for over-the-counter treatment of frequent heartburn.