Mastodawn

r0b07ca7 Aug 16, 2023

I have a bit of a dilemma, to pen show or not to pen show. It would be my first pen show.

The wants & needs for me are: custom nib work, trying out and buying specific pens I've wanted, and getting some oddly specific questions answered. But fears are: risk of COVID-19. I'm moderately immunocompromised and COVID rates are up. I will mitigate risk by attending during dealer hours, N95 mask, and personal Hepa.

Risk assessment is very personal, but any kind advice?

#FountainPen #FountainPens

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clown event still possib-L Aug 16, 2023

@r0b07ca7 I recently attended my first pen show and I'm immunosuppressed. The show was small but still had people in relatively close proximity. I wore a well-fitted N95 respirator (3M VFlex) the entire time. I also tried to avoid areas that were more crowded. The show took place in hotel ballrooms with high ceilings and open doors so there was some airflow. My hotel room - the only place I unmasked - was an allergy friendly room so it had closed loop air and a HEPA filter. I did not get COVID!

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clown event still possib-L

@r0b07ca7 It was the first time I'd traveled since the pandini started and I was really worried about it. But with the stringent masking (always when indoors, not even to eat or drink, except in the hotel room, and sometimes outside if crowded) it turned out fine. I can't say it's impossible certainly, but good N95 respirators with proper fit and a somewhat less crowded environment made it appreciably safe for me. That said I still would never go to a concert or big convention or restaurant.