MWRTA Takes Extra Precautions As Coronavirus Spreads

WELLESLEY, MA — Metro West bus riders can expect cleaner buses as the MWRTA joins the MBTA and several transit agencies across the country in taking extra precautions to keep vehicles clean, in an effort to stunt the spread of Coronavirus.

Although there is only one confirmed and one presumptive case of the virus in Massachusetts and no confirmed cases in the Metro West area, the transit agency is paying close attention to the situation. MWRTA officials on Thursday announced they would start to clean the Fixed Route and Demand Response vehicles every three days with a high quality disinfectant recommended by the Center for Disease Control.

Although it's not widely understood how COVID-19 spreads, most viruses can live on surfaces. More common illnesses like norovirus, influenza, and the common cold spread when people touch contaminated surfaces, and then touch their face or mouth.

The transit agency is also handing out educational information to all drivers and employees on proper hand washing and hygiene procedures, and is in the process of reaching out to all of its member community transit partners, including Councils on Aging and other public agencies.

"In an effort to be proactive, MWRTA feels it is important to take preventative measures to ensure a minimal risk of spreading viruses to employees and customers," read a statement from the agency.

According to the statement, MWRTA senior staff has determined that the agency is doing everything it is capable of in order to protect employees and customers, however, MWRTA will adjust or enhance preventative measures as necessary and/or as directed by public health officials.

Guidance from the state Department of Public Health on how to protect yourself from COVID-19 and other viruses:

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes.
• Stay home if you are sick.

Read more on the state's coronavirus webpage.