AVMA cancels 2020 convention amid COVID-19 concerns

Amid the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) announced late last week that it is cancelling its annual convention, which was to be held in San Diego July 31 through August 4.

The decision was made based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization and local government officials, according to an announcement on the AVMA website. The Cannabis Symposium and other meetings related to the convention are also canceled.

The Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA), which was to be held at Cornell University in March, was canceled as well.

Per the recent announcement, “The AVMA’s top priority is the health, safety and well-being of the veterinary community and AVMA Convention attendees, vendors, speakers and exhibitors.”

All conference registrations and hotel reservations made in the official AVMA block will be cancelled on registrants’ behalf. Registration fees will be fully refunded and, if applicable, registrants will have their hotel deposits refunded within 90 days.

Registrants who booked airline travel are advised to follow up directly with their booking agent or airline. In addition, those who booked hotels outside the AVMA block will need to follow up with the hotel directly.

“Committed to providing high-quality education and professional development,… the AVMA is currently exploring the potential for virtual conference options as an alternative meeting,” the announcement reads.

“We continue to be inspired by the strength, flexibility and support the veterinary community has exhibited during this crisis and thank the veterinary profession for operating as essential businesses during this unprecedented time,” says AVMA President Dr. John Howe. “While we’re extremely disappointed to cancel this year’s event, we’re looking forward to the AVMA convention returning stronger than ever next year in Minneapolis.”

Individuals with questions related to the convention can contact the AVMA by email (convention@avma.org) or phone (800-248-2862).