IFAH statement on the launch of Vet2011

The International Federation for Animal Health (IFAH) is participating in Vet2011 to launch World Veterinary Year, a celebration of the 250th anniversary of the world’s first veterinary school which was founded in Lyon, France, in 1761.

Under the slogan “Vet for Health, Vet for food, Vet for the planet”, Vet 2011 will host a series of special events throughout the year to raise awareness about the vital role of veterinarians and veterinary medicines.

“IFAH is very pleased to join the OIE, WVA, FAO, WHO, UNESCO, the European Commission and animal health organizations around the world in recognition of the historic achievements of the veterinary profession” said IFAH Executive Director Barbara Freischem.

“For a quarter of a millennium, veterinarians have made seminal contributions to animal and human health, food safety, and global food security. This year, as we celebrate these professionals, we want to emphasise the important relationship between human and animal health in fostering a healthier world.”