Apple CEO Urges Employees To Work Remotely Following Coronavirus Outbreak

As the coronavirus situation develops almost everyone around the world is starting to feel the consequences directly or indirectly. Bloomberg reports Apple CEO, Tim Cook has sent a memo encouraging company employees at offices around the world to work from home this week.

Apple chief describes the situation as an “unprecedented event” and a “challenging moment”. Cook advised its workers to perform their duties remotely “if your job allows” for the week beginning March 9.

This decision comes after staff at its main offices in Silicon Valley Seattle were allowed to work from home. Now, employees at offices in South Korea, Japan, Italy, Germany, France, Switzerland, and the U.K. are encouraged to do the same, according to Bloomberg.

Cook also noted other actions the company is taking to reduce the chances of contamination, like deep cleans at Apple offices. The CEO reminds workers to wash their hands frequently and avoid touching their faces. Employees who develop a cough or fever are also advised to stay at home until the symptoms disappear.

With China being a major player in Apple’s manufacturing process, the company was directly struck by the recent health crisis. Prediction of loss of earnings was already made and shortages of iPhones have already been reported.