Instead of eating in the dining car, I took advantage of Amtraks new room service option and had all my meals delivered right to my room at a time of my choosing. One such investigation of a 10-hour journey from London to Hanoi starting on March 1 found that 15 people were likely infected with COVID-19 in-flightand that 12 of them had sat within a couple of rows of a single symptomatic passenger in business class. We will continue to prioritize offering a modern, safe and reliable customer experience and preparing for what should be a monumental fiscal year 2022.. I wanted to determine if my experience was more the exception or the norm. Gina Suh, head of the Mayo Clinics travel clinic, says train travel isnt too dissimilar from air travel. At most, it cuts transmission substantially. He recommends only removing your mask to eat or drink. Theres not enough data on either to say which is safer, but the same risk factors are at play. Book travel, check train status, access your eTicket and more through theAmtrak app. Id spent the day watching the outside world flicker by like a silent film, a few minutes at a time. In fact, I had taken my inaugural journey on the bucket-list route back in early February, riding south from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo and then, a few days later, catching the train down again to the end of the line in Los Angeles. This time, I was in one of the private bedrooms located on the second floor of the trains two-bedroom sleeper cars. I also realized that absolutely none of the windows on the train were open, and frequent reminders over the intercom made it clear that passengers were not to attempt to open them. Jan. 14, 2022. In fact, we have a full-time medical director and public health and safety team who have been on the frontlines throughout the COVID-19 outbreak. When the train is approaching your stop, avoid crowding near the door and pay attention to crew announcements advising customers how and where to exit the train. Walking through the rows of roomettes, it appeared that people were taking advantage of a loophole in the mask rule they were maskless while in their rooms as required, but their doors were wide open. In fact, a recent MIT study found the risk of being exposed to the coronavirus could be as great whether a person is 6 feet or 60 feet away if the air is mixed. The need to extend safety systems and upgrade more track, officials said. But later reviews of the evidence suggest mass transit systems have not been major drivers of viral spread. With COVID-19s onrush, that hope was shunted to a political siding. One advantage to taking a train over a plane is that there are often fewer crowds and queues. The data emerging from a handful of new research papers show that COVID-19 can build up in poorly ventilated spaces. And in Michigan, the on-time rate was just 43%. It is worth noting that masks are not mandatory in the dining car when seated for meals, nor are passengers required to wear masks elsewhere while they are eating or drinking. In the dining car people wouldnt wear a mask while they were actively eating, but it seemed like they would use eating just like on planes as an excuse to keep their mask off.. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law enacted by the Biden Administration and Congress is a historic investment that will benefit customers and communities and prove that Amtrak is an important part of a larger solution to help America tackle the climate crisis, create economic opportunity and expand mobility.. Yet, Amtrak mandated masks for all passengers and employees beginning last spring. "We have been waylaid by the CDC with 'wash all this stuff,'" Dr. Arnot said. People refers to how many different people will you be coming in contact with. (If you want to take your PPE to the next level, consider adding a plastic face shield to your packing list. Greater Portland METRO has installed high-tech purification systems onboard their new buses. A Free Press article last year documented that Amtraks trains had become routinely late across much of the nation, with Michigan trains the very latest. For homes and many businesses, the solution may be as simple as keeping all the windows open as much as possible. 15 people were likely infected with COVID-19 in-flight, study modeled the risk of in-flight infection, novel coronavirus tore through New York City, asked several international transportation agencies, report by the American Public Transportation Association, Environmental Protection Agency recommends them, Sorry, UFO Hunters--You Might Just Be Looking at a Spy Balloon, AI Outraces Human Champs at the Video Game Gran Turismo, The Pandemic's Mental Toll, and Does Telehealth Work? Time: How much of it will you be spending in a place where you could get infected? Running on normal schedules are Amtraks other Michigan trains the Blue Water service that links Chicago to Battle Creek, Lansing, Flint and Port Huron; and the Pere Marquette between Chicago and Grand Rapids. However, Amtrak doesnt allow passengers to open windows any longer because of safety regulations and the central air conditioning. Amtrak, however, is limiting passenger capacity to roughly 50 percent (a percentage that varies depending on the quantity and size of groups traveling together) and has expanded cars and routes . That time, I had bought a business class ticket, an upgrade that came with two free bottles of water, an onboard food credit, and even a free early evening wine tasting. In fact, the whole room looked like what I would have expected to find in a first-class suite on an international flight back in the 1970s (if they made them this big). There seemed to be less risk of transmission, however, for people who were seated near windows and doors that could open. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Corrie Pikul is the Health and Wellness Director of O, The Oprah magazine, where she covers every aspect of health, from mood to the microbiome, the immune system to the cardiovascular system, sex to sleep. Amtrak was created by the Congress in 1971 when the nations existing railroads said theyd no longer carry passengers. For those who can't get a private room, Khabbaza recommended accessing fresh air for improved ventilation, even though Amtrak says all of its trains have onboard filtration systems with a fresh. So how does this translate into overall risk? Its the people in your immediate vicinity that you have to worry about. He acknowledges that the joys of long-distance train travel include being able to wander around, pick up snacks at the dining car, and stretch your legs. For the most part, it seemed the protocols were being adhered to, but when staff seemed more lax about sanitizing and enforcing mask policy, passengers used that opportunity to be less safe themselves.. UPDATE: Vermonter Train 55 is currently operating approx. This left a total of five dining tables open (all of which must be reserved for a specific time in advance). As I set my things down, the train rolled into motion. Theres no filtration system in the world that will move air fast enough to get COVID-19 away from you before you can be exposed to it, says Lofgren. Even though the train runs parallel to certain sections of the freeway, these are vantage points that you can only witness from the train. Upon reaching out to Amtrak, a spokesperson for the company said, "The health and safety of our riders and crew continues to be our number one priority. Stay safer on different forms of transportation. By the time I stepped onto the platform in Union Station this time in Los Angeles I was ready to go home, but already missing the train. Each is said to boast a 4,400-horsepower diesel engine made by manufacturer Cummins in Indiana, which generates electricity that powers four electric motors to turn the drive wheels. Sleepy small towns and vast stretches of farmland also whizzed by outside, blurring into one another and introducing stories and characters that existed only for seconds. That made me not want to gather in any kind of a public space while on the train whatsoever, she said. Due to safety reasons, the windows on Amtrak trains open only in case of emergencies, explains Kuhnen. PEOPLE MOVE AROUND. Many buses have HVAC (heating, ventilating and air-conditioning) systems similar to those on subways and trains, with one additional factor: buses are more likely to have windows that open. In late January, airline executives and employees told reporters they welcomed a new executive order by President Joe Biden, who ordered mask-wearing on all airplane flights as well as on other public transit that crosses state lines. In the station, Lofgren says you should practice the same kind of social distancing that youd do at, say, the grocery store: Minimize your contact with other people, so if someone is boarding, hang out until theres space for you to safely get on behind them. In Vermont, Dr. Arnot advised some of the local school districts on how to improve their air quality."We were at 2,000 PPM for the local classrooms here, and we opened the window and we were at . Sophie Bushwick is an associate editor covering technology at Scientific American. Im Linda, and Ill be your cabin attendant taking care of you all the way to Los Angeles. Lindas cheerful spirit was contagious, giving me the first real feeling of excitement and adventure since my last trip, a food-filled exploration of Houston back in late February. In theory, at least, traveling by train seems like a good compromise between taking a long car trip (with or without a portable potty) or getting on a disconcertingly crowded airplane. Many of the cities in question required commuters to wear masks. Since then, ridership crept partway back to its pre-pandemic level while Amtrak operated fewer trains and strictly enforced social distancing in coaches that could carry twice as many passengers. However, on the routes where the boarding announcements didnt sound as intense about COVID policies, passengers seemed less inclined to follow the rules. Amtrak rider Erin Silverman of Bloomfield Hills got off the train on the night of Feb. 5 in Troy, after riding the rails all the way to and from Denver. Trains also are safer than planes, in part, because many train stations have open-air platforms where travelers board, Dr. Aaron Rossi told USA Today in October. Una buena ventilacin, . For more stories like this, sign up for our newsletter. On pure reflex, I shot to the window to watch as we rode over the Willamette River. In addition, in a city system (as opposed to a long-distance ride), buses make frequent stops. But I reminded myself that I was booked in one of Amtraks private bedrooms, a space where Id have my own sitting area, en suite bathroom with a toilet and shower, a sink, and, when I was ready to call it a night, a bed. Khabbaza recommends train travelers book a private roomette or bedroom if they can afford to and if they are available. In addition, the railroad has restored daily service for its East Coast long . But the rail systems officials have posted videos that agree with prominent experts on viral transmission: Amtrak trains are likely safer than planes for avoiding the deadly virus. While many parts of my experience failed to meet my expectations, there were others that exceeded them. COVID-19 Innovative Adaptations As COVID-19 has greatly impacted the transportation industry, Amtrak has had to make some innovative adaptations. They were very serious about having people wear masks. Travel news, guides and tips for anyone looking to get away. Among . In 2019, we were selling every seat now were filling only half of each trains capacity, and were strongly encouraging people to sit apart, said Marc Magliari, spokesman for Amtrak. Amtrak passengers can now see how full their train will be upon booking amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "Two of our new buses have an air purification, a U.V. Amtrak will restore traditional dining car service on six western routes and the Auto Train on June 23. East of Kalamazoo, where the track needs improving, Amtraks maximum speed is 79 mph. But even with fresh air available, an infected passenger can still transmit the coronavirus to someone who is sitting in close proximityso riders should attempt to space themselves out and avoid densely packed cars whenever possible. During the 2019 fiscal year, Amtrak carried a record 32.5 million passengers; however, an Amtrak internal analysis in April showed a 95 percent drop in ridership because of the coronavirus. COVID-19 risk calculator: The safest and most dangerous things to do this holiday season; Updated number of COVID-19 deaths, cases in Bay Area; COVID-19 Help: Comprehensive list of resources . WASHINGTON Amtrak successfully advanced its COVID-19 recovery efforts throughout its 50th Anniversary fiscal year, through continued safety measures for customers and employees, increased train service levels in line with growing demand and continued building a strong foundation for modernization and growth. TRAVEL + LEISURE is a registered trademark of Travel + Leisure Co., registered in the United States and other countries. Nationwide, Amtrak was on time only 60% to 70% of the time in many states in 2019. Detours with locals. If you can splurge on a private room, do it! The affected routes include some trains in the Northeast Corridor and a New Orleans route. These face visors not only offer some added protection, says Lofgren, but they also make it easier to eat, drink, and communicate with other passengers.). Shorter ridesespecially those under roughly 15 minutespose a lower risk than long ones. However, the room was almost remarkably dated nostalgic even. (FILE CHIP UP) SOME SCHOOLS -- LIKE IN GORHAM -- HAVE USED CARES ACT MONEY TO INSTALL THE C-0-2 SENSORS (CG: HEATHER PERRY, GORHAM SCHOOLS) 01:26 WE'RE SETTING THOSE CO2 SENSORS TO THE LOWEST POSSIBLE LEVEL, WHICH IS ENSURING THAT OUT SYSTEMS ARE EXCHANGING AIR, AT THE FASTEST POSSIBLE RATE." In lieu of offering everyone private rooms, Murray says that assigned (spaced-out) seating is a smart step for Amtrak to take to protect passengers and allow for social distancing. So Flynn also asked Congress to give Amtrak the right to sue freight rail operations in federal court, so we can ensure our customers are not unnecessarily delayed by freight trains, and arrive on time.. By the time I reached the dining car, I was relieved to see that Sandy, the dining room attendant, was masked and wiping down tables. Al mejorar la ventilacin puede reducir las partculas de virus dentro de su casa y evitar la propagacin del COVID-19. Silverman is a travel agent, operating a Cruise Planners franchise from her home. light filter, and we are testing that," said Denise Beck, Marketing and Community Outreach Manager for Greater Portland METRO.METRO has partnered with the University of Southern Maine to carry out the tests on those devices. Thanks for reading Scientific American. While the view itself wasnt breathtaking, I found myself holding my breath. Dr. Arnot said he has submitted a proposal to the Biden Administration to mandate carbon dioxide meters in public indoor spaces like bars and restaurants. Although its already twice the size of a roomette, the bedroom cabins are much more spacious than they appear online. "Greater Portland METRO has installed high-tech purification systems onboard their new buses. And be sure to wash your hands after boarding (Amtrak bathrooms are equipped with soap and running water). Passenger train operator Amtrak claims to cycle air through cabins 44 times an hour. In a letter dated Jan. 22, Amtrak CEO Bill Flynn, who took the top job last spring, sent a letter to each member of Congress, citing Amtraks 50th anniversary this year. MERV-13 filters are less efficient than HEPA filters, but the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends them for reducing the number of airborne viral particles. Amtrak will continue to play an important role in the national transportation network for the next 50 years and beyond by operating a safe, environmentally efficient and fiscally responsible business by providing travelers with an experience that sets a new standard. Yes, its lonely and solitary, but unfortunately during the coronavirus, thats perfect.. A representative is available by phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide information regarding railroad operating matters. We talked to Amtraks corporate medical director, Ann Kuhnen, MD, as well as two epidemiologists about why these precautions matter, and what else you should know before booking a trip. One unexpected highlight of my train trip was the food both tasty and filling. 2023 Scientific American, a Division of Springer Nature America, Inc. "It's not to measure whether you have too much carbon dioxide as any kind of a toxin," Dr. Arnot said. It is nearly impossible for drivers and passengers to remain six feet apart in a car, so transmission is definitely possible. This finding assumes the infected passenger is wearing a surgical mask, however, and it does not account for the dangers involved in removing the mask for meals or talking or in moving about on the plane. Solo passengers can use the empty seats next to them for personal belongings. An alternative option for passengers in the coach class is to choose seats near train doors that open during stops. Written by David Peter Alan , Contributing Editor. AND WHERE COULD YOU POSSIBLY HAVE BETTER AIR THAN THE STATE OF MAINE -- YOU OUGHT TO BE SELLING IT (LAUGHS) 18:13 (BOTTARI LL TAG) WHILE I'M NOT SURE HOW MUCH MAINE AIR WOULD SELL FOR, I DO KNOW, THOSE CO2 METERS COST ABOUT 100 DOLLARS FOR A HANDHELD ONE. METRO launched a joint website with regional transit systems to provide information to riders about safety protocols. Youre in car 31 thats my car! At a casual glance, air travel might seem like the perfect recipe for COVID transmission: it packs dozens of people into a confined space, often for hours at a time. Bidens order came after months of sporadic voluntary enforcement of mask-wearing by airlines and after a petition from Consumer Reports magazine, signed by more than 60,000 people, demanding a government rule for masking up during flight. The latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox. All of that may, literally, require an act of Congress. And keeping conversation to a minimum could also reduce the danger because talking is known to release aerosols that can spread the virus. light filter, and we are testing that," said Denise Beck, Marketing and Community Outreach Manager for Greater Portland METRO. Amtrak will reduce its service between Friday and Jan. 6 as it grapples with a rising number of COVID-19 cases among workers and poor weather conditions, according to The Washington Post. Nights, Holidays & Weekends: (800) 562-1904. Amtrak, which serves more than 500 destinations in 46 states and three Canadian provinces, also offers a unique class of service that might especially appeal to travelers in the COVID-19 era: private rooms. "It's as if people were walking into burning buildings and we didn't have smoke detectors", "We know this is an airborne virus. 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