Update on 2019 Novel Coronavirus Outbreak in China

Jan-31-2020

THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN UPDATED AS OF FEB. 3

A new strain of coronavirus, which causes upper respiratory infections, originating in the central Chinese city of Wuhan has currently resulted in more than 17,000 confirmed cases around the world. Known as novel coronavirus, this virus was declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organization on Jan. 30 due to the rapid pace it has spread outside China. More than 360 fatalities have resulted, most in China with one case in the Phillippines.

Dedicated cross-functional teams at Ford are closely monitoring the outbreak and any possible implications for our people and our business. Working closely with national and regional authorities in China, the team is making sure Ford stays on top of the rapidly evolving situation, providing our colleagues and other stakeholders in China and around the world with relevant updates, and applying business continuity plans.

Non-production Ford employees in China have resumed work as of Feb. 3. To the fullest extent possible, Ford is encouraging its employees in China to work remotely in the near-term to reduce the risk of infection. The company will provide on-site support (e.g. masks, temperature readings, health checks) and medical advice to the vital few employees required at work locations during this time.

Among measures implemented by Ford to safeguard employee health and safety are:

· Instructing people to work remotely to reduce the risk of infection. Currently, plans are to resume production at manufacturing plants in China on Feb. 10
· Providing health supplies, such as face masks, and related medical advice to colleagues in China
· Administering temperature and health checks for Ford people who need to be at work locations to support business-critical functions
· Staffing a 24-hour employee assistance program hotline

In addition, Ford has restricted all business-related travel to, from and within China. Local employees who have traveled to Wuhan and other affected areas, as well as employees outside the country who have traveled to China, have been instructed to self-quarantine themselves for 14 days upon their returns.

Outbreak of a newly identified strain of coronavirus has occurred in China, centered in the city of Wuhan, with diagnosed cases now in other regions

Coronavirus has been declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organization

Dedicated Ford team closely working with China’s authorities to monitor the situation, provide timely updates to stakeholders, adjust plans accordingly

Safety of people, especially Ford team, is the top priority; support includes 24-hour assistance hotline providing latest information and advice

Chinese New Year national holiday extended through Feb. 2; Ford employees instructed to work remotely Feb. 3-7

World Health Organization, the specialized agency of the United Nations that looks after international public health, provides standard recommendations for the general public to reduce exposure to and transmission of a range of illnesses. These are the recommendations of the World Health Organization, which include hand and respiratory hygiene, and safe food practices:

Frequently clean hands by using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water

When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – throw tissue away immediately and wash hands

Avoid close contact with anyone who has fever and cough

If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early and share travel history with your healthcare provider

When visiting live markets in areas currently experiencing cases of novel coronavirus, avoid direct unprotected contact with live animals and surfaces in contact with animals

Consumption of raw or undercooked animal products should be avoided. Raw meat, milk or animal organs should be handled with care to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods, as per good food safety practices