Boxmeer The Netherlands January 31 2012

Merck Animal Health Announces New Research and Development Center

Boxmeer, the Netherlands – January 31, 2012 –

Merck Animal Health, a worldwide leader in animal health, today announced plans to build a new research and development center in Boxmeer, the Netherlands.

The new center will be located at the company's existing headquarters and will house approximately 100 scientists and staff. The center will focus on developing new diagnostic tests, vaccines, and other products for the prevention and treatment of animal diseases.

"This new center will allow us to accelerate the development of innovative products that will improve the health and well-being of animals around the world," said Dr. Rick Clark, President of Merck Animal Health. "We are committed to investing in research and development to bring new solutions to market that will benefit our customers and the animals they care for."

The new center is expected to open in 2014. Merck Animal Health is a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., a global healthcare company.