Here is a working document with advice from the health authorities on precautions you can take to protect yourself, your loved ones and your colleagues. We will update this document as more information becomes available.
As of writing, A2IM Indie Week and the Libera Awards, scheduled for June 13-18 and June 18, respectively, will continue as planned. A2IM is keeping a close watch on the impact of COVID-19. The health, safety, and overall well-being of our members, community, and staff are of paramount importance to us.
We are in discussion with MOME (the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment) regarding the disruption the Coronavirus pandemic is causing to your businesses. Please let us know how you anticipate your label or business will be impacted by the pandemic and what types of relief/aid would help. While this discussion is with the NY Mayor’s office, the goal is to investigate federal assistance, so please send ideas even if you are based in another city or state. Kindly submit your responses here.
Our friends at WIN (Worldwide Independent Network) have put together a list of COVID-19 Resources for the Independent Music Community. The resources are listed alphabetically by country.
The Recording Academy and its affiliated charitable foundation MusiCares are aware of the enormous financial burden to those whose creative practices and incomes are being adversely impacted by COVID-19. To help address the concerns of the industry during this time, they have expanded their services to include lost income due to the cancellation of scheduled gigs or performances due to Coronavirus/COVID-19 precautionary measures. If you are being impacted by the Coronavirus crisis and need support please see here.
Latest News for New York (per the NYS Department of Health)
- The Governor and Legislature have an agreement on a bill guaranteeing job protection and pay for New Yorkers who have been quarantined as a result of novel coronavirus. This bill also includes permanent comprehensive paid sick leave policy.
- Governor Cuomo signed an executive order directing all schools in New York to close by Wednesday, March 18 for two weeks ending April 1.
- Casinos, gyms, theaters are closed until further notice. Bars and restaurants are closed but takeout can be ordered during the period of closure.
- Testing is free for all eligible New Yorkers as ordered by a health care provider.
Steps to protect yourself (per the CDC)
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public space, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel drive.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, without unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at a higher risk of getting sick.
Steps to protect others (per the CDC)
- Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
- Throw used tissues in the trash.
- Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- If you are sick, you should use a facemask when you are around other people (e.g. sharing a room or a vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a facemask, then you should do your best to cover your coughs and sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a facemask if they enter the room.
- If you are NOT sick, you do not need to wear a facemask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a facemask). Facemasks may be in short supply and they should be saved for caregivers.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
- If surfaces are dirty, clean them. Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
Beware of misinformation:
Sadly, there have been several internet hoax-postings with seriously misleading information so please consult reliable sources such as those below. This should help minimize anxiety and ensure you are well-equipped to make the best decisions.
The CDC has a wealth of information, including frequently asked questions on COVID-19.
The NIH National Library of Medicine has the latest general information and advice on COVID-19.
World Health Organization Q&A on Coronavirus.
General Travel Advice:
If you, your artists and/or your staff are planning to travel domestically or overseas, you can consult The US Department of State. For international travel, check the list of embassy websites of the country you are traveling to.
Additionally, consult local government and regional public health sites. Consider carefully the wisdom of traveling against official advice, which may nullify travel insurance.
Check updates from airlines, travel agencies, or websites you use. This article from the New York Times gives advice on dealing with cancelations, etc.
Here us the CDC COVID-19-specific health advice for travelers and travel-related industries.
Ascertain whether you have adequate travel insurance, which may include:
- Refunds in the case of cancellations of flights, accommodation or business purpose
- Repatriation if sick
- Payment of medical bills
In this rapidly evolving situation, different governments’ policies or other factors may not permit repatriation or return travel.
Business disruption:
Consider moving to remote work in case of transport disruption, school closures, staff or their family members having to self-quarantine, and so on.
It is critical to advise staff with cold and flu symptoms to stay away from the office.
Our thoughts are with everyone who is being affected by this virus and all who are working to contain it.
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