BVA responds to tighter Covid restrictions

BVA responds to tighter Covid restrictions

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has issued its response to the tightening of Covid-19 restrictions this week following a surge in infections across the UK.

In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, two-metre social distancing requirements have been reiterated and there are now varying rules around how many people can meet up indoors and outside.

In England, PM Boris Johnston said that people should return to home-working if they can. He also increased the fines that can be issued to those who break the rules on face coverings, gatherings and social distancing.

James Russell, BVA president, says that while the various rule changes will not alter much in terms of how veterinary professionals work in clinical practice, the Association’s advice and guidance on working safely remains in place.

He did add, however:

‘The statements do serve as a timely reminder for everyone to follow social distancing requirements and as a strong message to clients to both follow and respect the requests and decisions that individual practices make in the interests of keeping colleagues and clients safe.

‘We know how well practices have already adapted to new restrictions and adjusted their ways of working so that they can offer a safe working environment while keeping animal health and welfare front and centre.  Now that the UK governments have given a clear signal that we may have many months of restrictions and challenges ahead, we’d recommend that teams continually assess their ways of working to make sure they and their clients feel safe and supported.’