
Taking Public Transportation During the Coronavirus Crisis
Galit M. Sacajiu, MD, MPH – Director, Medical Education
Taking Public Transportation During the Coronavirus Crisis Guidelines
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This letter aims to provide guidelines on taking public transportation during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.
Guidelines to Follow When Taking Public Transportation
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Verify any travel measures or restrictions from local transport authorities and follow their advice.
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Consider bringing:
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A hand rub with 70% alcohol
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Tissues
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A handkerchief
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Avoid:
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Traveling during peak hours
- Taking public transportation if you are:
- Feeling unwell
- An elderly or have preexisting medical conditions
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Assess if the arriving vehicle can facilitate social distancing. If not, wait for the next one.
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If possible:
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Use the rear door to board the vehicle and minimize interaction with the driver.
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Open windows to favor air circulation.
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Vacate at least one to two seats from other passengers.
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If you are standing, keep a distance of 6 feet (2 meters) from other passengers.
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Avoid touching frequently touched surfaces, such as handrails, doors, buttons, and pools.
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Otherwise, use a tissue to touch or hold them and disinfect your hands afterward.
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Avoid touching your face. If possible:
- Wear a face mask to prevent yourself from touching your face.
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Use a tissue, handkerchief, or scarf to wipe or remove anything off your face when needed.
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Use the inner part of your elbow to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
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Refrain from using your phone.
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Throw away any used disposable protective items.
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Observe the preventive measures being implemented at your destination.
Hayes, Steven C. “How to Stop Touching Your Face.” Psychology Today, 25 March 2020.
LINK. Accessed 21 April 2020.
Shannon, Joel. “Health officials say not to touch your face. That’s harder than it sounds – even for them.” USA Today, northjersey.com, 08 March 2020.
LINK. Accessed 21 April 2020.
“Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 02 April 2020.
LINK. Accessed 10 May 2020.
Citroner, George, and Crescione, Michael. “You Probably Touch Your Face 16 Times an Hour: Here’s How to Stop.” Healthline. 09 March 2020.
LINK. Accessed 10 May 2020.
Galit M. Sacajiu, MD, MPH
Director, Medical Education

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