This morning on the bus to work I sat next to a woman who was coughing without covering her mouth. It sounded more like a cough caused by throat irritation than having stuff in her lungs, but I'm pregnant, paranoid, and really do not want to get sick. I realize I'm being exposed to who knows what by just being on the bus, but i try to limit my exposure to the clearly sick people as much as possible. Would you have asked her to cover her mouth?
Oh, and I'll add that even when you're justified, "I spoke up for myself on public transportation" often isn't a story that ends well. Here I don't think you would have been all that justified though. "Sick person coughing without covering mouth" is a pretty mild bus offense.
The bus was full by the time she started coughing so I couldn't move, but based on the reaponses here I'm glad I didn't say anything. People are so gross, sometimes I really hate riding the bus.
Post by SuziSaysDa on Jan 28, 2013 12:59:50 GMT -5
Gross, but sadly, no I don't think you should say anything. I generally make it a point not to engage anyone when on public transportation, too much crazy.
If I were unable to move I would do my best passive-aggressive, dirty looks while covering my mouth/nose with my jacket and then using hand sanitizer. Or in your case, being pregnant and likely to be in this situation again, buy a face mask and wear it when you feel exposed. A few minutes of looking like a freak is better than catching whatever is being spewed into the air.