Posted in: C2E2, Comics | Tagged: c2e2, coronavirus, coronavirus comics

Welcome to Coronavirus Comic-Con Season…

Published Sat, 29 Feb 2020 16:01:42 -0600

Last updated Fri, 20 Mar 2020 17:24:32 -0500

Just on a whim, what with the coronavirus and all, I looked at Airbnb rates for Venice, at the epicentre of European pandemic infection right now. They have palatial places in the very centre of Venice, going for $20 a night. And I was suddenly driven with the idea of host a comic convention there right now, in some of the most tourist-desirable – and suddenly empty – places in the world. Stage panels in opera halls, get there on gondolas, and cosplay with the Venetian face masks, suddenly adding a practical element. And get in all the Italian creators who have had to pull out of C2E2. I bet we'd get excellent rates, just make sure everyone brings Purell.

The word coming out of C2E2 is that told that coronavirus fears are definitely palpable at the McCormick Center, "not much handshaking, lots of fist and elbow bumping and knowing nods. Lots of Purell and Germ X everywhere." The website gives full advice regarding avoiding infection.

This was echoed by Kristina Rogers, C2E2's Event Director, talking to CBS 2 saying "there's a lot of fist bumps instead of handshakes this year. We have Purell wipes everywhere. All of our info booths are stocked with disinfectants. It's just being a little mindful for everyone."

As comic book convention season begins in the US – as the country experiences its first related death – some conventions will choose to cancel. Others may see attendance fall – partially due to fears of infection, partially due to guests pulling out or being barred from entering or leaving the country.

CBS 2 also talked to exhibitor Zaki Said of Dragon's Den Collectibles, who had a pragmatic take on things. "The missus doesn't like it, but as long as I make money, we're OK". Glad to know not everything has changed…