Public transport trades determined to combat atypical pneumonia

Staff and association officials representing taxi, public light bus, ferry and non-franchised bus operators have enlisted in the fight against atypical pneumonia by pledging to provide a clean and safe environment for passengers.

About 40 representatives of transport associations and more than 300 drivers and frontline staff attended a health talk organised by the Transport Department on prevention of atypical pneumonia at Hong Kong City Hall this morning (April 2).

The Commissioner for Transport, Mr Robert Footman, thanked all staff of transport trades, particularly drivers, sailors and workers who are in direct contact with the travelling public, for joining hands with the Government in the battle to eradicate atypical pneumonia.

"All of you in the traffic and transport trades are reminded to pay attention to hygiene and keep yourselves and your vehicles clean," he said. "Be considerate to passengers who may have symptoms of atypical pneumonia.

"As millions of commuters use the public transport system every day, public transport operators should ensure good ventilation and cleanliness in vehicle compartments and station facilities. The support of the public transport sector is of great importance in combating the disease.

"I am pleased to see your determination and your commitment to the community-wide effort", said Mr Footman.

Dr Anna Yung of the Hong Kong Medical Association advised drivers and frontline staff to take the following precautionary measures:

	Build up good bodily immunity;
	Consult a doctor promptly if you develop respiratory symptoms or a fever over 38C;
	Maintain good personal hygiene;
	Wash your hands frequently;
	Wear masks;
	Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation;
	Open vehicle windows slightly to ensure proper ventilation;
	Clean and disinfect vehicle compartments between shifts.

Mr Footman distributed face masks and special guidelines on prevention of atypical pneumonia to members of the audience. The special guidelines, devised in consultation with the Department of Health, are being distributed to staff of taxi, public light bus, ferry and non-franchised bus operators through various channels, including by post, in government tunnels and at liquefied petroleum gas filling stations.

The Transport Department will hold another cleansing campaign for the public light bus trade at West Kowloon ECO LPG refilling station tomorrow (April 3). It is also organising cleansing campaigns for the taxi, non-franchised bus and school private light bus trades.

End/Wednesday, April 2, 2003