Chiron Vaccines

Chiron Vaccines was the specialized vaccine division of Chiron Corporation, a biotechnology pioneer based in Emeryville, California. The company was globally recognized for its innovation in infectious disease prevention, including the development of the first recombinant Hepatitis B vaccine and the discovery of the Hepatitis C virus. Its portfolio featured major commercial products such as Fluad for influenza and RabAvert for rabies, as well as the development of the breakthrough meningococcal B vaccine, Bexsero. Chiron was a leader in adjuvant technology, specifically the oil-in-water emulsion MF59, which enhances immune responses. In 2006, the company was acquired by Novartis for approximately $5.1 billion, and its vaccine assets were subsequently divested to GSK and CSL in 2015.