The TVMA is monitoring the rapidly changing status of COVID-19. We will continue to update this page as well as provide updates on Facebook and Twitter as we receive new information.
At this time, the AVMA is the most comprehensive resource for veterinarians. Please visit their website often as they frequently update information at the federal level.
TVMA continues to advocate for veterinarians to become eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in a timely manner (while acknowledging that front line human healthcare workers, first responders, nursing home patients, and others will have priority). TVMA is hoping that the Tennessee Department of Health (TNDH) will reconsider its decision to place veterinary professionals in Phase 4 of their recommended vaccination phased rollout. As soon as we receive more information, it will be shared with our members.
AVMA advocated at the federal level for veterinarians and based on the guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), it appeared that veterinarians and veterinary staff would be included in an earlier phase of vaccination. However, each state and local health department has the ability to prioritize vaccination to meet their unique situations and that has occurred in Tennessee. Follow the link below to learn more about vaccinations from AVMA:
COVID-19 vaccines and vaccination | American Veterinary Medical Association (avma.org)
Since vaccine availability is being determined at the state and county level and because the situation in regards to the number of doses available and the logistics of delivery are constantly changing, each veterinarian and practice is encouraged to learn more about their specific situation. The link below will take you to the TNDH COVID-19 vaccine FAQ page. Please note the new information at the bottom of page 4. It specifically addresses the situation with veterinary personnel.
To determine what phase your county is in, follow this link:
Tennessee Vaccine Phases | TN COVID-19 Hub
To determine your eligibility for COVID-19 vaccination, follow this link:
COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility | TN COVID-19 Hub
To read the entire playbook for COVID-19 vaccination in Tennessee, follow this link:
Continuing Education Audit of In-Person/Live Hours Suspended Through 2021
Executive Order 73 Extends Online CE – 01-28-21
Letter from TVMA President-December 31, 2020
Letter from TVMA President and Member Concerns During the COVID-19 Pandemic – 03-30-20
TVMA – Member Concerns During the COVID-19 Pandemic – 03-20-20
COVID-19 Guidance for TN Veterinary Practices as Vaccinations Become Available