Through its local organizations in countries throughout the region, Novartis is providing the equivalent of over USD 2.5 million in immediate emergency aid for victims of the recent earthquake in Haiti. The support includes both direct financial aid to relief agencies working in Haiti as well as donations of essential medicines, including antibiotic and pain relieving drugs. "It was with dismay that we learned about the destructive force of the earthquake in Haiti, which has brought such immense suffering to that nation and its people," said Dr. Daniel Vasella, Chairman and CEO of Novartis. "I would like to express our deepest sympathy for all the people affected and also to assure them of our support. Our experience of providing support in the wake of natural disasters has proven successful, ensuring that we can get aid to the people in need fast and efficiently."
Novartis employees worldwide are encouraged to make cash contributions to internationally and nationally recognized relief organizations in support of the victims of the earthquake. These donations will then be matched by the company.
Finally, Novartis will work with local authorities and aid organizations to identify where assistance can be provided on a longer-term basis to ensure that there is sustainable support for people impacted by this tragic natural disaster.
About Novartis
Novartis provides healthcare solutions that address the evolving needs of patients and societies. Focused solely on healthcare, Novartis offers a diversified portfolio to best meet these needs: innovative medicines, cost-saving generic pharmaceuticals, preventive vaccines, diagnostic tools and consumer health products. Novartis is the only company with leading positions in each of these areas. In 2008, the Group's continuing operations achieved net sales of USD 41.5 billion and net income of USD 8.2 billion. Approximately USD 7.2 billion was invested in R&D activities throughout the Group. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Novartis Group companies employ approximately 99,000 full-time-equivalent associates and operate in more than 140 countries around the world. For more information, please visit http://www.novartis.com.