With the acquisition of the vaccine manufacturer Icosavax for up to $1.1 billion, the British pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca secures access to a promising vaccine against RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). RSV is globally prevalent and one of the main causes of acute respiratory diseases.

Decisive for the takeover were primarily the advancements in the clinical development of Icosavax's RSV vaccine. The vaccine targets not only RSV but also the Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), which can also lead to severe respiratory tract infections. Particularly older adults are affected by these infections and often require hospitalization.

Astra-Zeneca pays $15 per share for Icosavax - a premium of 43 percent compared to the last closing price. Additional success-based payments are also planned. This investment underlines the pharmaceutical company's strategy to continue growing in the vaccine sector and diversify its portfolio.

Currently, there are no preventive therapies against hMPV and no combination vaccines against RSV. Astra-Zeneca has so far introduced two antibodies for RSV prevention on the market. Other pharmaceutical companies, such as GSK and Pfizer, have also developed vaccines against RSV.

RSV is a pathogen that causes severe pneumonia in infants and elderly people and is responsible for acute respiratory illnesses worldwide. By acquiring Icosavax, AstraZeneca can also make an important contribution to the health of these particularly vulnerable population groups.

With the acquisition of Icosavax, AstraZeneca not only expands its portfolio in the field of vaccines, but also secures access to a promising RSV vaccine in an advanced stage of development. This decision underscores the pharmaceutical company's long-term strategy to address important medical needs and strengthen its position as a leading provider in the pharmaceutical market.