Johnson & Johnson Donates Over RMB 1.5 Million in Products to Support Frontline Medical Workers in Wuhan

Shanghai, February 28, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19) epidemic, tens of thousands of healthcare workers across China have been fighting on the front lines in Wuhan. In this major test against the epidemic, they have fought day and night without hesitation, leaving behind the silhouette of the "most beautiful retrograders," and are well-deserved heroes.

“There is no such thing as peaceful times; it is only because some people are carrying the burden and moving forward.” Captured in a series of moving news photographs are the busy, exhausted, yet resilient figures of healthcare workers: deep marks left on their faces by masks, fogged-up glasses beneath their protective goggles, and wounds on their hands—caused by repeated washing and disinfection—clearly visible even through gloves. Many medical staff rushed to the front lines without even having time to pack daily necessities...

In tribute to these healthcare heroes in white coats, and to provide an extra layer of protection and care for frontline medical staff, Johnson & Johnson has once again taken action by donating products worth more than RMB 1.5 million to healthcare workers on the front lines of the epidemic response in Wuhan. Specifically, Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health’s Listerine and Dabao brands prepared and delivered over 50,000 bottles of Listerine mouthwash and more than 18,000 units of Dabao SOD Moisturizing Cream and Nourishing Hand Cream to nine designated hospitals in Shanghai and Wuhan. Meanwhile, Johnson & Johnson Vision donated a batch of ACUVUE® 1-Day Disposable Contact Lenses, valued at over RMB 500,000, to two designated hospitals in Wuhan, safeguarding the clear vision of the brave “retrograde” healthcare workers who need to wear both protective goggles and glasses while fighting the epidemic.

On February 28, the aforementioned supplies gradually arrived at designated hospitals in Shanghai and Wuhan. By addressing everyday needs, these efforts aimed to resolve practical issues faced by healthcare workers, support improvements in their living and working conditions, and contribute new strength to winning the battle against the epidemic.

“May everyone who carries a heavy burden be treated with warmth.”

Fully equipped on this smokeless battlefield to better engage in the fight. As healthcare professionals strive to alleviate human suffering and safeguard patients’ health and lives, Johnson & Johnson remains committed to supporting the health and well-being of those who care for others.

The oral cavity is one of the body’s key defenses against external pathogens. For healthcare workers, maintaining oral health and hygiene is particularly critical due to the prolonged use of face masks. Meanwhile, to ensure thorough hand disinfection, frontline medical personnel often immerse their hands repeatedly in various disinfectants and hand sanitizers, leading to dryness and even cracking of the skin over time. In response, Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health quickly mobilized resources, donating more than 50,000 bottles of Listerine mouthwash and over 18,000 units of Dabao SOD Moisturizing Cream and Nourishing Hand Cream starting February 25. These supplies were shipped from Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health’s warehouses in Shanghai and Wuhan to nine designated hospitals in both cities, providing care and support for the healthcare heroes battling on the front lines of the epidemic.

Deng Xu, President of Johnson & Johnson Consumer China, stated, “Guided by our Credo, we have closely monitored the progress of epidemic prevention and control and the needs from the front lines, always ready to provide every possible assistance. Whether through cross-border product allocation, meeting the needs of medical teams, or donating supplies under our brands, each effort reflects the dedication and commitment of Johnson & Johnson employees, as well as our profound respect for healthcare workers on the front lines. United in our fight against the epidemic, we stand together, hoping that our white-clad warriors will return safely and soon!”

“Those who say the stars are the brightest have never seen the eyes of frontline medical staff.”

“To my all-powerful WeChat Moments: Could anyone please tell me where in Wuhan I can still buy Johnson & Johnson daily disposable contact lenses? My cousin, a nurse, is about to head to the frontline for rescue work. Being nearsighted, she finds it inconvenient to wear prescription glasses under protective goggles. Express deliveries from Shanghai and Beijing are not allowed to ship liquids into Wuhan—it’s really worrying!” On the eve of Valentine’s Day, an older sister posted this message on her WeChat Moments. Within a short time, the screenshot of this plea was quickly forwarded by caring individuals to the mobile phones of Johnson & Johnson employees.

Coincidentally, the China Primary Health Care Foundation also recognized the needs of frontline healthcare workers and sent a donation request letter to Johnson & Johnson: “Wuhan’s frontline urgently needs daily disposable contact lenses for vision correction while wearing protective goggles. Compared with frame glasses, contact lenses can more effectively ensure the seal of protective goggles, thereby reducing the risk of infection during work. Additionally, they do not fog up, ensuring that medical staff have clear vision while working, which enhances the accuracy and safety of medical procedures.”

On February 28, a batch of ACUVUE® silicone hydrogel daily disposable contact lenses, valued at over RMB 500,000 and donated by Johnson & Johnson Vision, arrived in Wuhan. Delivered with the deep respect and sincere blessings of all Johnson & Johnson employees, the donation was handed to healthcare workers at Wuhan Tongji Hospital and Union Hospital.

Li Jing, General Manager of Johnson & Johnson Vision in China, stated, “In the face of the pandemic, it is our bounden duty to support the needs from the frontline. Our mission is to help people see more clearly and live better lives. We hope to do everything we can to express our sincerest gratitude and respect to the heroes fighting on the front lines of the epidemic response. May they return safely soon, so we can all enjoy the vibrant spring flowers together!”

“Angels in white protect people; we protect them.”

As a global leader in healthcare, Johnson & Johnson has been actively responding to the epidemic. Johnson & Johnson took the lead by donating RMB 1 million to the Chinese Red Cross Foundation, rapidly allocating innovative products and medicines to support healthcare needs, and sourcing globally to urgently deliver donated critical medical protective supplies to designated hospitals in Hubei and other regions, including 1 million protective masks, 100,000 sets of protective suits, and 100,000 pairs of goggles, with a total value exceeding RMB 20 million.

This donation initiative by Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health and Johnson & Johnson Vision Care serves as another testament to Johnson & Johnson’s commitment to its Credo, demonstrating care through concrete actions. By carefully identifying the needs of frontline healthcare workers in their daily work and lives, and meticulously addressing their protective and personal necessities, this effort provides robust support for their anti-epidemic efforts on the front lines. Johnson & Johnson will continue to unite with all sectors of society to go all out in supporting China’s battle against the epidemic, welcoming the earliest return of these heroic “reverse travelers” who have bravely stepped forward in the face of danger.