By: Samantha Bartlett

As of April 12, the AVMA reports that there are no shortages reported by animal drug companies that source drugs or active ingredients in China. There is concern, however that supply chain disruptions will lead to shortages. The FDA has teamed up with FEMA to help allocate resources where most needed. PPE is also in short supply and veterinary suppliers are mostly distributing these on allocation. Most state governments have ordered veterinary clinics to discontinue elective medical procedures and conserve PPE by reusing masks and gowns when necessary.

Many veterinary hospitals are donating PPE and medical equipment, such as ventilators, to their human counterparts. If you wish to volunteer your time or donate equipment, the AVMA encourages you to start with local and state veterinary medical associations to facilitate distribution where most needed. The AVMA cautions that veterinary personnel wishing to volunteer in roles involving contact with human patients should be aware of the increased risk and impacts on their return to work in the veterinary field, which may involve increased duration of self-quarantine and testing. 

The AVMA has a dedicated webpage for COVID-19 resources at https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/covid-19. Information is updated regularly and is good launching point for all things veterinary during the pandemic.