Merck Animal Health, a division of Merck & Co., has agreed to acquire the aqua business of Elanco Animal Health, an animal health company, for $1.3 billion.  

Under the agreement, Merck will acquire a portfolio of medicines and vaccines, nutritionals, and supplements for aquatic species; two related aqua manufacturing facilities in Canada and Vietnam; as well as a research facility in Chile.  

Upon closing, the acquisition will broaden Merck Animal Health’s aqua portfolio with products, such as Clynav, a DNA-based vaccine that protects Atlantic salmon against pancreas disease, and Imvixa, an anti-parasitic sea-lice treatment. This acquisition also brings a portfolio of water-treatment products for warm water production.  

The acquisition is expected to be completed by mid-year 2024, subject to approvals from regulatory authorities and other customary closing conditions. 

Source: Merck & Co.