Coronavirus fears have finally reached DC Comics’ notice.
The company has announced that, in light of growing concerns of this pandemic, all March convention appearances are cancelled. This includes planned appearances at Emerald Con.
Coronavirus Fears – To What Extent is Emerald Con Affected?
In a released statement, the company states, “As the health and safety of our employees are always our primary concerns, DC staffers will not be attending conventions during the month of March. [Future] convention attendance will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, factoring in the latest information from a variety of organizations, including the CDC, WHO, U.S. State Department and local health agencies.”
Dark Horse Comics and Penguin Random have also announced schedule changes for the March 12-15 event. The same can be said of independent artists that had planned to attend Emerald Con.
The coronavirus is not to be underestimated, readers. According to reports, a vaccine to counter COVID-19 is 19 months away, as health officials are still studying its effects. The best present defense, according to reports from Vietnam, is maintaining good hygiene and consistent hand washing. Since its outbreak in China, the virus has spread to numerous countries. While certain politicians downplay the infection, the World Health Organization news updates are your best resource for up-to-the-minute information. Protect yourselves and your loved ones, as DC Comics is doing for its employees. Geeking out on your favorite artists and writers panels will have to wait.
For those who still plan on attending Emerald Con, be you fan or vendor or guest, please take necessary precautions as well. The adjusted schedule for the event, located at the Washington State Convention Center, is still being finalized.
