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VM brings you the latest information from optical companies and organizations responding to the coronavirus. CooperVision is now producing hand sanitizer at its sites in the U.K. and Puerto Rico. A portion of the product will be used to support internal requirements and employee hygiene needs, which the company says will be consistent with supply and free commercial stocks for distribution elsewhere. CooperVision will then donate additional volumes to community organizations and customers. CooperVision’s Hampshire, U.K. site manufactures a range of brands, including Biofinity and MyDay contact lenses.

Following a laboratory redesign to meet materials handling requirements, the team repurposed machinery and developed new operating procedures. Within three weeks, the company was producing bottles of hand sanitizer in volume and in line with the World Health Organization formulation and regulatory guidelines. Community recipients have included areas of the National Health Service, schools, community facilities, care homes and charities.

The company’s Juana Diaz, Puerto Rico facility also produces brands such as Biofinity and MyDay contact lenses. In the coming weeks, the U.S. sales team will distribute complimentary bottles of Puerto Rico-manufactured hand sanitizer to customers, supplementing what practices can obtain from other sources.

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