Swinging Safely During the COVID-19 / Coronavirus Outbreak

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Wash your damn hands, people!

Wash your damn hands, people!

The COVID-19 / coronavirus outbreak is increasingly a global health concern, particularly in Asia, including China and South Korea. As we’ve reported, lindy hoppers in those areas are facing significant restrictions on their freedom-of-movement but are keeping their spirits up by dancing in their homes. And messages of solidarity are coming in from all over. But what should be the response from lindy hop event organizers to this new health crisis?

At the moment, there isn’t much that most people are advised to do, according to the experts we’ve consulted. The common advice is the same as during flu season:

  • Wash your hands frequently (see below for the proper way to do it)

  • Stay at home if you are feeling sick

  • Cough and sneeze into your elbow

Many dance venues put out hand sanitizer to prevent the spread of germs. However the CDC advises that hand washing is more effective than hand sanitizer at eliminating the most germs and bacteria. If you do put out hand sanitizer, make sure it has at least 60% alcohol.

If you are healthy, most health agencies and medical experts say that face masks aren’t necessary. But if you are sick, a face mask can prevent spreading your virus to others. (And in our opinion, if you are sick enough to have wear a mask, please don’t go out to a social dance or swing class.)

This is an evolving medical emergency, so the situation can change rapidly. And different localities will have different guidelines and restrictions placed on them by their local health agencies. For example, many lindy hop venues in Asia are closed at this time, particularly in China and South Korea.

Here are some links to resources for further information, which we will keep updating as the situation develops:

Swing safe and stay healthy, everyone!