With the Swine Flu pandemic, now called H1N1 to protect those in the swine industry, floating around the globe and rearing its head in Massachusetts it is important to remember some basic health etiquette To Do’s for Gamers.
Gamers get a bad wrap for cleanliness as evidenced by DorkTower 4 Gamer Hygiene. But, by following the below steps recommended by the CDC we can each continue to game in public, be healthy, and prevent the spread of Swine and other types of Flu.
6 Good Health Gamer Practices
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- Don’t use other people’s dice, models, rulebooks, supplements, or gaming materials. (This comes from me)
- If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. (I think you should also seek medical help from your doctor but inform them before you appear in person that you suspect you have the flu so they can take necessary precautions to prevent its spread).
These are all good hygiene practices that we should observe every day. No matter how well we take care of ourselves we can always use a kind reminder. You can find out more information from the CDC about Swine Flu by clicking the big graphic of a bar of soap below. It will also tell you how many reported cases of Swine Flu exist in your state. There’s a lot of hype about Swine Flu, more than it deserves in my opinion, but there is no need to panic. We should all continue to go out in public, shop, and most importantly GAME at your Friendly Local Game Store. Don’t let the hysteria over H1N1 prevent you from attending your usual D&D game, Star Wars Minis event, War at Sea gathering, Friday Night Magic, or 40k league.
Use common sense and follow the 6 Good Health Gamer Practices. It will all be safe. This has been a public service announcement brought to you courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control.
