FIES Group offers advice to minimize the risk of infection when traveling by public transport
Various international studies indicate that public transport does not stand as one of the main sources of contagion of Covid-19.
27/10/2020
The new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus has caused many people to become afraid of traveling by public transport, since it is perceived as a source of contagion due to the large number of people it concentrates. Despite this, various international studies indicate that public transport does not stand as one of the main sources of contagion of Covid-19. According to a study by the University of Tohoku (Japan), which tracked coronavirus groups, it did not link any outbreak with public transport, but with overcrowded meeting places, such as gyms, pubs, or live music venues. Likewise, a study from the University of Colorado Boulder, led by the Spanish chemistry professor, José Luis Jiménez, estimated that in a three-hour trip on a bus or subway with adequate ventilation systems, with a minimum of conversation and movement, the probability of contagion is only 1%.
'Public transport is safe, as long as the safety and prevention measures can be met, in addition to having adequate ventilation systems,' says Carles Galán, one of the professionals at FIES Group, a training center with more than 20 years of experience, which develops its activity in the field of emergencies, prevention and health.''In addition to the mask, mandatory in all public spaces, and the safety distance of one and a half meters from other people, both at the entrances and the platform and within transport, frequent hand washing with soap and water or with an alcoholic solution, it is one of the most important measures that must be taken into account when traveling by public transport, since the hands facilitate the transmission of the coronavirus', says Antoni Albiach, one of the health professionals of FIES Group.
Avoid unnecessary travel
'In the middle of the second wave of the pandemic, and with the entry into force of the new state of alarm, it is advisable to use public transport only if it is essential. In this way, we not only protect ourselves and other passengers, but we will also be leaving the bus, train or tram free for those who really have no other option to move,' says Carles Galán.
Plan the trip
'It is important to check the transport schedules that we are going to use before leaving, and to avoid rush hours as much as possible, to reduce the risk of crowds. It is also advisable to use the vending machines and card payment, to minimize the risk of infection,' concludes Albiach .