Crucell's 2nd-qtr net loss narrows to 18.2 euros

Dutch drugmaker Crucell NV says that its total revenue and other operating income amounted to 39.4 million euros ($53.6 million) in the second quarter of 2007, an increase of 82% compared to the same period last year, mainly driven by the successful introduction of its new pediatric vaccine Quinvaxem, which protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B and Haemophilus influenzae, as well as increased sales of travel vaccines. As a result, the firm's net loss narrowed to 18.2 million euros from 26.0 million euros.

Product sales amounted to 32.2 million euros, 45% of which are vaccines for children, while travel vaccines make up 38% and other products 17%. This stream of Crucell's income is seasonal and has historically been concentrated in the second half of the year, driven mainly by influenza vaccines sales, the firm noted.