Advice for artists about the COVID-19 pandemic & touring.

We have now received advice from the UK’s Deputy Chief Medical Officer regarding Coronavirus and large gatherings of people. Whilst this information is current policy, it is likely to change very quickly, so steps should be taken to remain informed about the UK Government’s latest advice. 

As of 2nd March, there were no plans to cancel public gatherings, including music events, in the UK. People should follow public health information with regards to hand hygiene in order to reduce the spread of infection, as the virus is transmitted via contact with surfaces or through airborne particles from people in close proximity (<2m),  more information here 

Deputy CMO advice is that public gatherings pose no further risk to the spread of the virus than other scenarios where humans are in close contact such as on public transport. However, whilst 98% of people who contract the virus get better, risks are higher for those individuals who are likely to face complications with other strains of seasonal flu or those over 60. People in those categories should take common sense steps with regards to decisions around attending gatherings of people.

For people planning to travel overseas, please follow advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office which currently states not to cancel travel to events unless specifically recommended otherwise: Read here

The World Health Organization has published advice about mass gatherings here. This does include steps to cancel events and for quarantine areas to stop the spread of the virus. Artists should seek advice if they have tours or visits planned to areas which have faced large outbreaks, such as Italy.

Artists should be aware that insurers are no longer covering the cost of cancellations due to Coronavirus, therefore the recovery of costs in such cases may be difficult. We will continue to monitor the ongoing situation but in the meantime, please continue to monitor Government advice

David Martin (General Manager – Featured Artists Coalition) www.thefac.org