TwitchCon is set to take place in San Diego, California from October 7th through October 9th and it appears that the event is living in the pre-pandemic days, as they are set to operate without much emphasis on personal safety.
According to Kotaku, organizers of the event there are pretty much no measures in place relative to the ongoing pandemic, meaning attendees won’t need to be vaccinated, will nto be required to show test results, and won’t need to wear a mask at the event.
Pointed out within the report is the “Health Measures” section on the TwitchCon website, which says that “TwitchCon San Diego will be presented in accordance with applicable public health and safety guidelines as of the date of the event,” which means that “the health and safety measures for our event may change at any time as determined by federal or local government agencies, the venue and/or Twitch.”
Also within the report: “We’re constantly reviewing our health and safety guidelines along with local authorities. In accordance with current local guidelines, there will be no COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements at TwitchCon San Diego. Although masks are encouraged, they are not currently required to attend TwitchCon. Please ensure you are comfortable with our current health and safety measures before you purchase your ticket to TwitchCon.”
It’s an odd stance to take especially after the recent Comic-Con, which showcased the power these events have in spreading COVID-19, with star panelists (such as George R.R. Martin testing positive following the event). Furthermore, the event points out that California is recording 50,000 new cases a day, as of this week.
Twitch also says that “the health and safety measures for our event may change at any time,” so it is possible that things could change from now until then. But, as of this writing, nothing has changed.
We will see how it plays out, but at present moment, attendees will be taking a big risk when attending this year’s TwitchCon in it’s current iteration.