“Coronavirus” is an umbrella term for a host of mild to moderate illnesses, including the common cold. The novel coronavirus that’s recently been causing respiratory illness is referred to specifically as COVID-19.
We have protocols in place for emergency scenarios like a public health crisis, and we’re staying in close touch with federal and state health authorities.
There are steps you can take, too, to help everyone stay healthy.
What we’re doing
The safety of the public and our employees is a top priority for us. Measures we’re taking:
- Sharing information about how to stay healthy. Look for tips in English, Chinese, Spanish, Russian, and Korean throughout the subway, bus, and railroad system.
- Extending hours for flu shots for MTA employees. Keeping our workers healthy helps keep you healthy.
- Implementing enhanced sanitizing procedures across the system. We are beginning a system-wide enhanced daily cleaning procedure for all stations, train cars, and buses. Our cleaners will be disinfecting high-touch surfaces every 72 hours. That includes poles, handrails, seats, benches, and grab bars.
- Adding to our stockpile of hygienic supplies. We have a stockpile of hygienic supplies on hand. Working hand-in-hand with state and federal partners, we continue to stock up on essential supplies.
What you can do
We encourage everyone to follow these recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
If you’re experiencing symptoms and have traveled to areas of concern (or have been in contact with someone who has), call ahead to your health-care provider before you go in in person.
