Novartis: $2.5 million to Haiti victims

The quake has left millions without aid

On 12 January, Haiti was rocked by the largest earthquake ever recorded in the area. The incident has sparked the call for emergency aid across the world, and now, thanks to Novartis, the pharmaceutical industry is getting on board too.

According to reports, global pharmaceutical firm Novartis is, through its local organizations in countries throughout the region, set to provide the equivalent of over $2.5 million in immediate emergency aid for victims of the disaster.

Reports show that this support will include both direct financial aid to relief agencies working in Haiti, as well as donations of essential medicines, including antibiotic and pain relieving drugs.

Conscious effort

The move by Novartis is being viewed by some skeptics as little more than lip service to the latest natural disaster that has rocked our plant, with some suggesting that the move is merely designed to demonstrate that Big Pharma has a heart and isn't all about profits. But, according to Dr. Daniel Vasella, Chairman and CEO of Novartis, the support from the pharmaceutical industry is, in reality, much more genuine.

According to a recent statement, he said, "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."

"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."

In addition to this support, Novartis employees across the globe are being encouraged to make cash contributions to internationally and nationally recognized relief organizations in support of the victims of the earthquake. These donations, the company says, will then be matched.

What's more, Novartis has said it will now work with local authorities and aid organizations to identify where assistance can be provided on a long-term basis to ensure that there is sustainable support for those in the region.

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