In light of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in the Bay Area, the San Mateo County Transit District is monitoring the situation and maintaining regular contact with local public health agencies, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The Transit District is the administrative body for the principal public transit and transportation programs in San Mateo County, including SamTrans bus service and Caltrain commuter rail service.
As reported by the CDC, the immediate risk posed by COVID-19 to the public remains relatively low. However, we understand this can raise concerns about safety in public spaces, including public transit. Therefore, we want to remind passengers about CDC-recommended precautions everyone should take onboard public transit to prevent the spread of illnesses:
- Wash your hands with soap and water before and after riding public transit. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Avoid eating while onboard.
- Do not cough into your hands. Cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow.
- Stay home if you are sick.
While SamTrans buses and Caltrain trains are regularly cleaned and sanitized, following these recommendations is the best way to prevent the spread of illnesses onboard. Caltrain and SamTrans have also shared preventative information with agency staff to ensure they can remain safe and healthy when serving the public.
For the latest information about COVID-19 in communities served by SamTrans and Caltrain, please refer to information and guidance provided by the following public health agencies:
- San Francisco Department of Public Health
- San Mateo County Health Department
- Santa Clara County Public Health Department
- Centers for Disease Control
We will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds and respond as necessary in partnership with our public health and transportation partners.
Be safe, wash your hands and refer to public health agencies to minimize risk of exposure.
Jim Hartnett
General Manager/CEO, San Mateo County Transit District
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About the San Mateo County Transit District: The San Mateo County Transit District operates 70 SamTrans routes throughout San Mateo County. Funded in part by a half-cent sales tax, the San Mateo County Transit District also provides administrative support for Caltrain and the San Mateo County Transportation Authority. The San Mateo County Transit District has provided bus service to San Mateo County customers since 1976.
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