COVID-19: AVA Response

The AVA is advocating strongly for the profession as a result of the ever-changing COVID-19 situation.

We have formed a Working Group with members from the Board, Public Health (AVPH), Small Animals (ASAV), Equine Vets (EVA), livestock vets, Veterinary Business Group (VBG) and the AVA Advocacy staff team.

Impacts on veterinary business continuity

• The Board has ratified the AVA Telemedicine Policy in recognition of the increased relevance of this in the current context.  The policy can be found here.

• We are contacting all the Vet Boards to ensure that veterinarians are able to work remotely if needed, and continue to provide their essential services.

• We are contacting the relevant government departments to ensure that any enforced shut-downs will not impact veterinary practices, and will lobby for veterinarians to be listed as an essential service under the circumstances.

• We are also looking into the issue of essential supplies – such as PPE and medicines, and will keep members updated on progress.

Scientific information and resources

The following resources are now on the website for your convenience.  These can be printed out and used in your practices.

Veterinary practice information

• Infection Prevention and Control for Veterinary Practitioners: COVID-19

• Risk management for veterinary workplaces: COVID-19

Client information sheets

• Client information sheet – AVA

• Client advice sheet – sample

Veterinary profession updates

• 4 March 2020: Update about COVID-19

• 6 March 2020: Report of transmission from human to pet dog in Hong Kong

• 13 March 2020: Update on Report of transmission from human to pet dog in Hong Kong

HR resources: 

• See AVA webpage

Government resource:

• Cash flow assistance for businesses

With sincere thanks to the Working Group for their ongoing expert help and support.

Melanie Latter
Head of Policy and Advocacy