Con Crud. You don’t want it, and neither do we.
“Con Crud” (also known as “Con Plague”) is a broad term applied to any number of viruses or contagion you may pick up from others while you’re at a convention. The fact is, we all encounter all kinds of “crud” (germs, bacteria, and viruses) on a daily basis. Our bodies generally do an amazing job of fighting off these invaders every day. BUT, when you’re staying awake all night, gaming, partying, and reveling with your friends over meals comprised of pocky and red bull, your immune system taps out, and all the “crud” can have its nefarious way with you.
Keep Your Immune System Happy
The trick? Keep your immune system happy. Your body needs rest so your white blood cells can fight off those invaders, and you need to supply your immune system with nutrients–fuel for the microbial fight. A few simple tips:
The 5-2-1 rule. Learn it. Live it. Love it. Your body will thank you, and so will we. In fact, be an over-achiever on this one. Because you are just that awesome.
Stay hydrated! Water (not soda) helps your cells flush the bad stuff out. It also keeps your mucus membranes happy, and less susceptible to harm.
Do the hygiene thing. Wash your hands early and often. Those gel-hand-sanitizers are okay, but you really can’t beat good ol’ soap and warm water to get con-crud off your hands, and everyone else’s. And don’t forget to cough or sneeze into your elbow instead of your hand. Yes, that is also simply good hygiene. (And it also happens to be good courtesy.)
Get a flu shot. Consider doing this at least two weeks before the con. This will give your body time to build up antibodies, giving your immune system more ammo for the upcoming microbial fight.
If You Have Con Crud…
If you have the ‘flu or a cold, consider sitting this one out. Fever / chills, sneezing / sniffling, sore throat, body aches, and coughing are signs that you may be contagious. The same bug which makes you feel bad can have serious effects in others, especially children, cancer patients, and the elderly. Staying home when you’re sick helps curb germs in the community. You may not hear us say it, but we really are saying “thank you” when you choose to keep your cold at home. We will look forward to partying with you next year.
We all want to have a good con experience, so let’s work together, and make sure everyone goes home happy and healthy. UMG thanks you for your time and attention. We now return to your regularly-scheduled, lighthearted cavorting.
Got a con-going pro-tip to share? Drop us a line and share it!