Germs on public transportation?

Question

Although I do not avail myself of it often, from time to time I will descend underground and take the rail. It is most times crowded. Disturbingly, I see many people of varied descent who appear QUITE ill. They cough. They wipe their noses. They grab onto the hand rails. I NEVER touch anything on the train, wearing gloves if I have them, or using a handkerchief as a guard against touching any exposed surface. My friend Bitsy says I am being just like Howard Hughes. She doesn't seem at all concerned about germs on the train. She sits down and all I can do is imagine the unspeakable bacteria clinging to her clothes. I won't sit down. I am not a worrier about germs. I have a cleaning woman who comes in 3 times a week, which certainly isn't excessive. I simply do not relish the idea of contracting bird flu from those people who don't fully know about proper hygiene. Do you cover your hands before touching exposed surfaces on the train or bus?

Answer 1

I do my best to refrain from touching ANYTHING in public. Of course, this is not always possible (menus & condiment bottles in restaurants, door handles, etc.) so I wash my hands frequently, open doors with my sleeve, or a kleenex, and carry antibacterial wipes with me at all times. People tell me that antibacterial stuff is bad for me, but I can't imagine it's any worse than watching some bum hack up half a lung into his hand, then hand a dollar bill to somebody (and having it end up in my hand as change).

Answer 2

I always carry a hand sanitizer in my bag and use it often (especially after touching public door knobs and such). Also, after using a public restroom and washing my hands, I take a clean paper towel and use that to open the door. It's okay to be conscious about germs...as long as it doesn't harmfully affect your ability to live a productive life. If you are trapped inside your own home because of your extreme fear of germs out in the public, then that's a different story! But for the most part, I definitely agree about limiting your contact with anything on a train or subway.

Answer 3

I don't live in a town big enough to have an underground railway. Or a taxi cab! 4500 people in my town. However, I am a cashier. And I see and hear customers coughing and it freaks me out. I grab my hand sanitizer out of my pocket and put it on before I start their transaction, and after. But nothing I have done has helped this year it seems. I've gotten the crud that been going around a couple times.

Answer 4

Any public place we visit there will be billions of germs and bacteria floating around, your still alive and sound in good health. Some of us have no choice but to take public transportation, I myself never touch the poles or door handles. When I arrive home I always give my hands a good wash. I rarely get sick and am in great health. Public transportation person and health care worker.

Answer 5

Germaphobia is pretty common, but you should try to be a little more realistic.

I don't blame you for wanting to wear gloves, but think about it - so what if you get those germs/bacteria on your hands??? Just don't touch your face or eat until you can wash your hands and you'll be fine.

Maybe anti anxiety meds would be of some help.

Answer 6

I do the best I can. I also carry antibacterial lotion and the first thing I do when I get home is wash my hands thoroughly. How about shopping and touching all those clothes sick people might have touched? Boggles the mind, doesn't it?

Answer 7

I know just what you mean, and agree with you 100%. I never touch anything if possible, and always carry with me that hand sanitiser and use it often. IT REALLY HELPS ! I don't get as sick as others, and I know its because I take these precautions.

Great Question !

Answer 8

Yes you have a good point.
There are gems everywhere.

But i feel at times we have to be in contact with gems to build up our own immune system.
Protecting ourselves constantly will only lead us to a poor immune level.

So roll in the dirt, but always remember to wash your hands before eating and keep yourself clean.

Blessings ALD

Answer 9

I carry hand sanatizer around, but you can't avoid all germs ~ it wouldn't be good for you if you did.