FFF Enterprises Announces Early Shipment of Seasonal Flu Vaccine

The Nation's Largest and Most Trusted Distributor of Flu Vaccine Starts Shipment of Influenza Vaccine This Week Through Its MyFluVaccine Program, Paving the Way for Early Influenza Vaccinations Nationwide


TEMECULA, CA--(Marketwire - July 28, 2009) - FFF Enterprises, Inc., the nation's largest and most trusted distributor of flu vaccine, announced today that shipments of the seasonal flu vaccine will begin this week, supporting the nationwide rollout of annual influenza immunization programs. Late July is unusually early for flu vaccine delivery, and is made possible by the exceptional performance from FFF's manufacturing partners: CSL Biotherapies, Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, and sanofi pasteur.

"We are committed to distributing ample supplies of influenza vaccine into the marketplace as early in the flu season as possible," said Patrick M. Schmidt, chief executive officer, FFF Enterprises, Inc. "By getting a jump on the 2009/10 season and delivering influenza vaccine to our customers in late July, we are supporting the timely administration of nationwide immunization programs, which ultimately prevents the spread of illness and saves lives."

The early delivery date is especially significant since the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) encourages early seasonal flu vaccinations. And with the H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine expected to arrive in October, this early first round allows healthcare providers to regroup for a second and third clinic, which will be needed since the H1N1 vaccine will require two doses.

Health officials also note that while the seasonal vaccine provides little or no protection against H1N1 swine flu, immunization will help prevent people from being infected with both viruses at once and can help minimize the effects of the pandemic on schools, workplaces and the economy in general.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website notes that most manufacturers and distributors typically attempt to distribute at least a portion of requested influenza vaccine early in the season. But until recently, influenza vaccine purchasers have been burdened with uncertainties about availability and delivery dates. In 2006, FFF launched an innovative program titled MyFluVaccine (www.MyFluVaccine.com) to help streamline the flu vaccine distribution process. Unlike the traditional influenza vaccine distribution system, with its uncertain delivery dates and quantities, MyFluVaccine gives healthcare providers the ability to choose the exact date they wish to receive their flu vaccine.

"MyFluVaccine gives providers the ability to select specific delivery dates for their vaccine, which allows them to plan flu clinics with the confidence of knowing their vaccine will arrive on time," says Schmidt. "This brings a new level of certainty to flu vaccine supply and delivery."

While much attention has been focused on the potentially deadly consequences of an H1N1 pandemic, according to the CDC, approximately 36,000 people die from the seasonal flu each year, which is why FFF believes it's an opportune time to focus on flu awareness and education. The company's website offers links to support materials including a "Flu Myths and Facts" page aimed at dispelling common beliefs about the flu vaccine.

"For most people, getting immunized against influenza is the easiest and most effective way to reduce their risk of infection," explains Schmidt. "With annual vaccination, they can help protect themselves and avoid spreading infection to those who are unable to receive the vaccine."

About FFF Enterprises, Inc.

FFF Enterprises, Inc., a privately held corporation, is the nation's largest and most trusted distributor of flu vaccine, plasma products, and critical-care biopharmaceuticals. Founded in 1988, FFF is celebrating its 21st year with more than a billion dollars in annual sales and a flawless safety track record. FFF's Guaranteed Channel Integrity™ ensures that products are purchased only from the manufacturer and shipped only to healthcare providers, protecting patients and manufacturers from counterfeit risks and pricing irregularities inherent in secondary and gray market channels. FFF's proprietary technologies, Verified Electronic Pedigree™ and Lot-Track™, provide verification of this secure channel. FFF's MyFluVaccine (www.MyFluVaccine.com) has revolutionized the flu marketplace, offering a dedicated flu vaccine supply, delivered to customers on the date of their choosing, and offering certainty in a volatile market segment. FFF's ability to move rapidly in a dynamically changing marketplace allows the creation of new opportunities for customers through innovative vehicles for distribution.

Contact Information: Contact: Sheryl Perez (951)296-2500 x1357 sperez@fffenterprises.com