South Shore Line officials continue to monitor and address potential impacts from novel coronavirus (COVID-19), and are taking steps to further reduce the risk to our passengers from exposure to the virus.
As of March 4, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the majority of the American public are unlikely to be exposed to the virus at this time, and the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is considered low. However, as a precautionary measure, the SSL has implemented a heightened maintenance protocol, including increasing the frequency and intensity of our sanitizing procedures on trains and in stations.
CDC-approved sanitizers and disinfectants with 24-hour effectiveness in killing COVID-19 will be in use every day on all frequently used surfaces. This is including, but not limited to, station and on-board train seats, armrests, floors, door frames, interior handholds, bathroom sinks, toilets and doorknobs.
In addition, we are reinforcing basic methods of protection with all train personnel, and encourage passengers to utilize soap and water on board the trains for appropriate hand-washing measures.
According to the CDC, you can reduce your risk of infection by doing the following:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick. The CDC states the virus spreads through respiratory droplets among people in close contact - within about 6 feet.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a bent elbow or tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
SSL officials are actively monitoring the CDC, the WHO (World Health Organization) and other agencies to coordinate our efforts to keep our passengers and employees safe.
For more thorough information about COVID-19, including how to protect yourself and how it spreads, please click here.