AMERICARES HONORS ABBOTT LABORATORIES WITH THE “POWER OF PARTNERSHIP” AWARD AT THE HDMA ANNUAL LEADERSHIP FORUM

ARLINGTON, VA — October 25, 2006 — AmeriCares presented the annual “Power of Partnership” award to Abbott Laboratories at the HDMA Annual Leadership Forum in Orlando, Florida. “The Power of Partnership” award recognizes HDMA members that have shown exceptional dedication to expanding access to medicines and healthcare for disadvantaged populations in the developing world.

"During national and international disasters, including devastating storms like Hurricane Katrina and the Indonesian tsunami, Abbott is proud to partner with AmeriCares to help people in crisis receive the critical healthcare and support they need," said Kathy Pickus, Vice President, the Abbott Fund.

Abbott has partnered with AmeriCares since 1986, donating more than $400 million worth of products, including acute and chronic-care pharmaceuticals, nutritional supplements, IV solutions, medical supplies and equipment, all of which have increased the quality and impact of AmeriCares aid in more than 100 countries. Recent targeted grants are funding a pediatric nutritional program in rural Vietnam and helping to improve neonatal healthcare in Kosovo. A $1 million donation following the 2004 tsunami continues to enhance AmeriCares program capabilities in Indonesia and Sri Lanka.