Navigating COVID-19 in a taxi

 

The three golden rules of engagement when navigating the COVID-19 pandemic are to avoid closed spaces, crowded places and close contact situations. When you use taxis, however, that is not always possible. Worry not though, there are ways around this. Here are four tips to help you reduce your chances of coming in contact with COVID-19 in a taxi.

 

1. Keep your mask on

COVID-19 is spread through particles that are released when speaking, coughing or breathing. Masks have to be worn over our noses and mouths to prevent any of these particles from spreading. While masks can get hot and annoying, we need to wear them because some COVID-19 cases are asymptomatic meaning that one may not even be aware that they are positive and possibly spreading the virus. Keep your mask on properly to protect yourself and everyone around you.

 

2. Try to keep your distance

Particles released when speaking or couching can travel for up to 1 metre which is why we should keep our distance. While it may not always be possible to social distance in a taxi, if it is not full, consider leaving a space between you and the person next to you.

 

3. Sanitise, Sanitise, Sanitise!

Always sanitise your hands after touching any surfaces like windows, doors and seats that could contain COVID-19 particles. It is also very important to sanitise after handling money because it passes so many hands before it gets to you.

 

4. Keep the windows open

We know it’s not great to have the window open during those chilly mornings while the taxi is zooming down the freeway but keeping the air flowing can help in reducing the chances of coming into contact with COVID-19.

 

While the vaccine has hit our shores and is slowly making its way to us, COVID-19 is still very much a reality. We’re in this together and if we all follow these easy steps, we can get even closer to the end of this tunnel.