Conventions in the Time of Outbreaks – How to Protect Your Health During Con Season

The Coronavirus is undeniably a health problem at present and people are still desperate for answers and hope that the crisis will be controlled or contained soon. A lot of places are locked down, travels bans being implemented, and several major events have been canceled including Anime Japan. However, in the midst of this growing health crisis, some anime and hobby conventions still continue to push through their dates. As an old saying goes, the show must go on!

People are now advised to stay safe and avoid very crowded places for the meantime until the situation improves. However, this doesn’t mean that we are not allowed to have fun this year. Here are some of our tips on how to protect yourself from this virus and how to improve your health before, during, and after the convention weekend. Note that this is based and inspired from various discussions as well as many health-related articles. We hope that in a way this will help you.

Check Official Social Media Accounts of the Conventions You Are Going

Before you are going to push through your cosplay and convention plans for this one specific weekend, it’s best that you check out the official social media accounts of the conventions that you are going. Check if it’s either pushed to a different date or canceled. Remember that organizers do their best for the benefit of their attendees. So if ever such decisions will be made, then these are for the best.

Also, don’t worry if the convention that you’re going is going to be canceled and you have already pre-ordered your passes. Organizers will be refunding them to you. Just keep yourself posted on their official updates.

Take Vitamins and Eat Healthily

During this season of a health crisis, it’s time to take the phrase health is wealth seriously. Be sure to take multivitamins and have healthy meals every day. Adding fruits and vegetables into your diet can make a difference.

Don’t Feel Bad if the Con is Cancelled

If ever the convention that you suppose to attend to is really canceled, don’t feel bad! There’s always a next year. Big conventions will always be there. If they have to cancel for health safety reasons, then expect next year’s con to be more awesome.

Bring a Mask

Knowing that you will be going to a public place filled with a lot of people, it’s highly recommended that you bring a mask with you. Disposable surgical or medical masks are the best ones right now.

Always Wash Your Hands

Always make it a habit to regularly wash your hands especially during the whole convention weekend. Con organizers might provide hand sanitizers and alcohols inside the venue so be sure to sanitize your hands upon getting inside.

In fact, the World Health Organization recommends washing your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds, using an alcohol-based sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol. They also recommend that if you cough or sneeze, to do so into an elbow or tissue in order not to fling mucous everywhere. You are also encouraged to stay home and “self-quarantine” if you have a fever or feel ill.

Always Follow Implemented Protocols by Convention Organizers

To make sure that everyone will have a great and safe time during conventions, it’s always a must that everyone should follow the protocols implemented by convention organizers. Always keep in mind that this is for the safety for everyone who are attending the con.

Never Forget to Have Fun!

As always, conventions are always the great avenue to meet old and new friends who share the same passion for anime, manga, comics, and video games with you. Never forget to have fun! It’s time to forget the stress of school or work even for just one whole weekend and be proud that you are in one of the most awesome events of the year!

Photo from CON ALT DELETE / AnimeCon.org