Avoid catching a cold on public transport this winter

The threat of catching a cold is everywhere this winter, especially on your daily commute to work.

In this guide, we will advise you on how to avoid catching a dreaded cold on your daily train commute or even if you’re just travelling for leisure.

How likely is it that I will catch a cold?

Travelling by train offers many benefits including avoiding rush time traffic and being able to sit back and relax before a busy workday. However, it is worth being mindful whilst travelling on board if you want to stay sniffle-free.

One study found that those who use public transport such as trains were up to six times more likely to catch the common cold, with up to 15% of the population being struck down by a cold virus during the winter months.

‘This is a key time for the onward transmission of colds, as people are closer together for longer periods,’ says Dr Gary McLean, an honorary research fellow in the Airway Disease Infection Section of the National Heart and Lung Institute at Imperial College London.

To avoid catching a nuisance cold for yourself, here are some top tips that may help you avoid getting ill this Winter.

How to avoid getting a cold from someone you’re next to?

Research from cold and flu specialists found that one of the main ways of catching a cold was through inhaling airborne droplets or mucus from an infected person. 

If you notice someone beside you coughing or sneezing often, it may be safer to stand sideways to them rather than directly opposite. Also, when they cough, try not to breathe in for a few seconds.

Spotting common cold symptoms

It is worth researching what the signs of a common cold are in other people before you set off on your commute. John Hopkins Medicine notes that some common symptoms to look out for include:

• A runny, stuffy nose.
• Sneezing.
• Watery eyes.
• A mild, repeated cough.

How long do cold germs live on surfaces?

Surfaces such as handles, buttons and handrails are perfect places for cold viruses to linger. The likelihood of picking the common cold up depends on the length of time the virus has been on the surface, the amount of virus deposited, and if you transfer the virus by touching your nose or eyes.

Do you see a person with the sniffles touching certain surfaces? It may be best to avoid contact with the same surfaces if you can. But even if you have to, don’t touch your nose or eyes afterwards until you can thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water.

When it comes to trains or train stations, some of the most commonly infected surfaces include escalator handrails, ticket machines, maps and handrails.

Our train cleaning facilities

Grand Central have only the highest of standards when it comes to the cleanliness of our trains & station facilities. Including regular cleaning intervals which involve:

• In transit cleaners - ad-hoc cleaning on in-motion trains.
• Turnaround cleaners - Undertaken once a day when the train reaches terminals, they include deep cleaning of toilets and rubbish collections.
• Heavy cleans - these are carried out regularly, with the whole fleet deep cleaned every eight weeks.

Read more about the cleanliness of our train & station facilities here. 

How to avoid getting a cold with train essentials 

Whilst on the go, using an anti-bacterial alcohol-based hand gel can kill some viruses. But remember, washing your hands with soap and water once you get to the train station is always the best step to take.

Antiseptic wipes are also a good option to wipe down any handrails. 

If you’re looking to avoid catching the influenza virus, we advise talking to your GP for further suggestions and prevention.

Wondering what you can take on the train? Why not read our informative guide? 

Other tips to avoid the common cold

Here is some other helpful advice if you’re looking to avoid catching the common cold.

Sitting in empty or less crowded areas

If you can, try to sit in emptier areas such as train carriages which are less full than others, this minimises your risk when it comes to the likelihood of sitting next to people infected with a cold. 

Getting as much ventilation as possible 

If you’re on a train with windows, try to open them to get as much ventilation in the train as possible, this reduces your chance of breathing in an airborne virus. 

If you have a common cold already

If you have unfortunately been struck with a cold, we recommend you stay home to protect your fellow commuters if possible. 

If this isn’t possible, we recommend following a strict hygiene routine which includes regularly washing your hands and discarding any used tissues using the bins we provide on board and in our stations.

How long does a cold last?

According to the NHS website, you’re infectious with a common cold until all your symptoms are gone. Symptoms usually last around 1 to 2 weeks but they can last longer in babies and young children. 

Avoid catching a cold and travel safely with Grand Central

Although catching a cold is usually harmful, it can be both inconvenient and potentially lead to other complications.

If you have any other questions about our cleanliness practices, contact our friendly team today before booking a ticket.