Abstract

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus that caused Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), created widespread societal interruptions affecting all aspects of veterinary care.¹ Marine mammal veterinary medicine has a unique set of challenges since it involves working with large animals in an aquatic environment, often requiring animal care teams to operate in close contact in order to accomplish veterinary care. Even with an emphasis on voluntary husbandry behaviors and pharmacologic restraint, situations arise necessitating staff to work closely together. A phased management approach to the medical care of the U.S. Navy’s Marine Mammal Program (MMP) population of marine mammals living in open ocean enclosures during the COVID-19 global pandemic is presented. The incorporated framework was adapted from established principles of biosecurity and infection control of animal diseases and applied to MMP animal care standards in order to develop safe and effective public health protocols.^2-4 Guidelines established by regulatory agencies for veterinary practices were adapted for the unique environment of marine mammal medicine.¹ Principles highlighted include hierarchy of infection control, rational use of personal protective equipment, and appropriate disinfection and cleaning protocols.^2,5-7 A phased approach was implemented based on local geographic transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and adapted to guide public health decision-making. Tabletop exercises and communication drills are highlighted as tools integral to the success of this public health approach among a diverse group of stakeholders.^1,2,7 This framework allowed for maximum staff health and safety as well as comprehensive veterinary care, despite the ongoing global pandemic.

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank the involvement of U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program animals, civil service training staff, scientists, and managers, and the National Marine Mammal Foundation and Scientific Applications International Corps trainers, veterinary and medical records staff who facilitated this effort.

*Presenting author

Literature Cited

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