The MSU College of Veterinary Medicine’s mission is focused on educating our students, advancing research, and providing diagnostic and specialty veterinary services to the region; however, during the current COVID-19 pandemic, we are acutely aware of the need for sharing resources and working with local, state and national leaders to help ensure the best possible outcomes for this unprecedented event. Therefore, according to MSU CVM Associate Dean for Administration Ron McLaughlin, the College has been in touch with the appropriate agencies and physicians and emergency preparedness representatives at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson, Longest Student Health Center (LSHC) on the MSU Campus and OCH Regional Medical Center (OCH RMC) in Starkville, regarding our ability to assist in their efforts to care for the public should they find themselves in need of additional resources and personnel. Dr. McLaughlin said MSU CVM has, in fact, already shared some personal protective equipment and medical supplies with LSHC.
One of the most needed pieces of equipment in the treatment of COVID-19 patients is ventilators. MSU CVM has numerous ventilators used in providing care to our patients; however, only two of them are suitable for human use. “Nonetheless, we reached out to OCH leaders to make them aware that they were available, and these two ventilators have been delivered to OCH,” Dr. Joey Burt, Animal Health Center director and assistant dean for clinical services said. “Should the need arise, we will also share any personal protective equipment or medical supplies not needed at the College’s animal hospital and clinics with OCH. In addition, MSU CVM clinical personnel stand ready to assist local physicians if needed.”
Dr. McLaughlin noted that this is an unprecedented time, and MSU CVM remains committed to serving the needs of animals while protecting the health and well-being of our caregivers. “We also understand that when it comes to COVID-19, we are all in this together, and we are honored to have the opportunity to provide resources and offer clinicians that could benefit those fighting this terrible virus,” he said.
