The Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI) has issued guidance to its registrants amid Covid-19 level 5 restrictions.
Under the latest ‘lockdown’ guidance from the government, ‘veterinary, animal welfare and related services’ and ‘regulation, inspection and certification services’ are allowed to continue as essential services.
The council said: “Veterinary practices provide essential services, vital to safeguard animal health and welfare and services required in the support of food production.
“During this period veterinary professionals can continue to work as essential workers; however, practices and habits must continue to be adapted to meet the current circumstances.”
Hygiene protocols for vets
In a guidance statement issued to all registered vets, the council highlights the continued importance of hygiene protocols.
It’s reminding vets to:
- Sanitise hands regularly;
- Wear a face mask;
- Vets and veterinary nurses to work in pods where possible;
- Keep the number of clients entering a practice to an absolute minimum i.e one person brings a pet to the practice.
The advice from the council is that visors are not as effective as wearing masks and it references the latest evidence from the Centre for Disease Control Prevention (CDC).
The vets’ council also says there is currently no specific advice on the potential for animals to be involved in viral transfer to humans.
Impact on veterinary profession
The guidance from the council goes on to state: “The health and well-being of registrants is imperative, in the best interests of animal welfare and public health.
The council is urging vets and their staff “to exercise their clinical and professional judgement when assessing veterinary cases and in keeping with other disease control measures and to lead by example when interacting with their clients and patients alike”.
VCI President Joe Moffitt said: “I continue to feel immensely proud of my colleagues in facing this crisis with determination and collegiality, and community spirit uniquely enjoyed amongst the veterinary professions.”