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Commuting is a basic part of life for millions of people in the San Francisco Bay Area. The price savings and ease of mind of using public transportation can be great. However, traveling in close quarters with lots of others can lead to the spread of germs and viruses like the flu or common cold, and even the H1N1 Flu.

The H1N1 Flu virus has already killed many people and is likely to cause more public health disruptions. Recently President Barack Obama signed an emergency statement that allows the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to waive technical requirements and to expedite emergency needs regarding this medical threat, according to the White House blog.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a great Web site dedicated to providing information and updates regarding the H1N1 Flu. This site explains that the H1N1 Flu is spread much like the common flu, through the air from coughing and sneezing or from the virus being left on doorknobs and other places touched often by many people.

If you are a Bay Area commuter who rides trains or buses, you are at more risk of catching the H1N1 flu than others who commute by car. You need to take extra precautions. You should be mindful of the places you touch while on BART, on Caltrain, or on a bus. Wear gloves if you can or wash your hands often. Carry disinfectant wipes with you or take advantage of the free hand disinfectant offered by BART and other transit services.

There are many Web sites that offer additional tips on preventing the spread of H1N1 Flu. For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a great list of tips at this link, with suggestions such as avoiding the touching of your eyes, nose or mouth. For specific tips about avoiding the H1N1 Flu on public transportation if you are pregnant, the Web site of BabyCenter has some excellent ideas.

Public transportation in the San Francisco Bay Area is often the easiest and fastest way to get to work. Unfortunately the downside is that you often have to share space with people who may be sick. This year, do your part to help prevent the spread of the H1N1 Flu virus.