WuXi Biologics Provides Update on Operations in Light of Coronavirus Outbreak

On Feb. 12, 2020, WuXi Biologics provided an update on its operations in China in light of the coronavirus outbreak. The company said it is closely monitoring the outbreak, and its management team is diligently working to execute its business continuity plan to mitigate potential risk. All three of the company’s operating sites in China-Wuxi, Shanghai, and Suzhou-resumed operations on Feb. 12, following the Chinese New Year break, the company stated in a press release.

Overall, approximately 6% of the company’s staff have traveled to Wuhan, transited through Wuhan, or had contact with people coming from Wuhan. No employee has been diagnosed with the infection, WuXi Biologics assured in its press release. “We are closely monitoring the health of every employee and have implemented strict back-to-work procedures to protect our employees. Approximately 85% of staff are already back to the cities in which they work. We have sufficient number of staff to resume operations,” the company stated in the release.

The company also stated that it does not operate in Wuhan and does not have major suppliers from Wuhan. Supplies for labs and manufacturing are not likely affected. In addition, shipment of samples and materials, import and export, and custom clearance are business as usual.

WuXi Biologics is also working to ensure that the quality of the products it is manufacturing is not affected by this outbreak. “We have a strong GMP quality system and a robust global supply chain. We do not expect to see any negative impact of this outbreak on our GMP operations” the company asserted in its press release.

The company has recommended that overseas clients who plan to travel to China conduct meetings via videoconferences or teleconferences.

Lastly, the company stated that it has already mobilized a large team of more than 240 scientists and is working closely with global organizations to develop and manufacture multiple neutralizing antibodies to potentially treat the virus infection. In-vitro efficacy of these antibodies will be available next month.

“This situation, which continues to evolve daily, reminds us that we must continue to do the right things for patients. We do not expect to see meaningful negative impact on our business operations in China,” the company added in its press release.

Source: WuXi Biologics