Reducing the risk of coronavirus infection on public transport

A public transport expert from the University of London claims the one of the best ways to reduce the risk of coronavirus infection on public transport is ventilation.

NICK TYLER said a good ventilation system is key, told the BBC “outside, in the open air, micro-droplets dissipate into the air and winds. Once they are inside, in an enclosed area, they have less movement”.

Official guidelines to travellers from the Ministry of Transport at the start of the pandemic includes wearing a mask and maintaining social distance to prevent contagion.

Anybody who has tested positive or has shown symptoms of having the virus is urged to avoid using public transport, travel only when it is necessary, avoid rush hours, and wash hands thoroughly before and after each journey.

But transport expert, Tyler, has also stressed the importance of a good ventilation system.

He referenced ventilation systems on aeroplanes, which he said are more effective than those on buses and trains.

“The ventilation in aeroplanes is heavily criticised in many ways. In fact, it is one of the best systems we can find,” he said.

Meanwhile, Transport for London is calling on the public to “help us reduce air pollution and support London’s green recovery from the pandemic by pledging to walk or cycle your trips this September”.

In a Facebook post, TFL said: “Car Free Day is back on Tuesday September 22! But this year we’re celebrating throughout the whole month with some great competitions.

“We’re encouraging you to reimagine your city car-free, whether it’s switching to cycling the school run, walking part of your commute, or adding in weekend walks with friends.”

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Tara Rippin

Tara Rippin is a reporter for Spain’s largest English-speaking newspaper, Euro Weekly News, and is responsible for the Costa Blanca region.
She has been in journalism for more than 20 years, having worked for local newspapers in the Midlands, UK, before relocating to Spain in 1990.
Since arriving, the mother-of-one has made her home on the Costa Blanca, while spending 18 months at the EWN head office in Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol.
She loves being part of a community that has a wonderful expat and Spanish mix, and strives to bring the latest and most relevant news to EWN’s loyal and valued readers.

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