250th anniversary of veterinary medicine, Vet2011, celebrated at AVMA convention Schaumburg, Illinois — The 250th anniversary of the birth of veterinary medicine, celebrated around the world as Vet2011, will play a major part in the annual convention of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) held in St. Louis, Mo., from July 16-19.
A day-long symposium – titled "World Veterinary Year: 250 Years of Improving Animal and Human Health" – will be held on Sunday, July 17, in Room 120 at America's Center. This symposium will host international leaders, including Dr. Jean-François Chary, executive secretariat of Vet2011 and inspector general of the French Ministry of Agriculture, and Dr. Bernard Vallat, director general of the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE). The goal of the symposium is to highlight past, present and future contributions of veterinary medicine to both animal and human health.
"It's really an exciting year to be a veterinarian. Not only is it the 250th anniversary of veterinary medicine, but this is the year that we've confirmed the eradication of rinderpest, a deadly cattle plague that has caused famines for hundreds of years. This is only the second time in history that the hand of man has eradicated a deadly disease," explains Dr. Ron DeHaven, chief executive officer of the AVMA. "At the annual convention, we want to make sure we celebrate the many contributions of veterinary medicine to human and animal health through our Vet2011 programs."
A special World Veterinary Year exhibit will be on display at the AVMA Pavilion in the convention exhibit hall, featuring information and free giveaways for all attendees. Vet2011 also will play a part in the convention's Opening Session.
The AVMA is the sole U.S. representative on the international Vet 2011 Executive Committee, which includes more than 380 organizations from 78 countries around the world. The AVMA is also leading the U.S. National Vet2011 Committee's coordination efforts for U.S.-based celebrations.
For more information, visit www.avma.org or www.avmaconvention.org.
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The AVMA, founded in 1863, is one of the oldest and largest veterinary medical organizations in the world. More than 81,500 member veterinarians worldwide are engaged in a wide variety of professional activities. The year 2011 is being celebrated by veterinarians around the world as Vet2011, the 250th anniversary of the birth of veterinary medicine and education.
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