While it is not yet known how serious the H1N1 flu will become and its impact on public transit, Maple Grove Transit wants to inform its riders about the steps it has taken to deal with this matter. Maple Grove Transit (MGT) will fall under the Pandemic Flu Preparedness and Continuity of Operations Plans developed by the City of Maple Grove and Metro Transit. As the conditions change due to flu infection rates among the general population and directives by State and Federal agencies, different elements of these plans may come into play.

The number one goal is to provide as much of our regular bus service as possible in safe and reliable manner. Absenteeism rates by drivers and support staff due to the flu can greatly affect this goal. Hopefully, MGT will be able to give riders a few days notice if significant bus service reductions are needed. However, scenarios could exist where serviced is reduced sharply with little to no notice. Riders should have an alternate commuting plan in the event of reduced bus service in either scenario.

MGT is placing hand sanitizer and sanitizer wipes dispensers at the Maple Grove Transit Station. Riders should also consider carrying their own personal supply of these types of products. Metro Transit will also ensure proper cleaning of the MGT buses.

Below are some tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on what you can do to help stay healthy and help prevent the spread of the flu.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. 
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective. 
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way. 
• Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. 
• Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds, and other social distancing measures. 
• Find healthy ways to deal with stress and anxiety. 
• Vaccination is the best protection against contracting the flu. If you can, get a seasonal and H1N1 flu shot. Check with your doctor to see if you can get a flu shot. 
• Call 1-800-CDC-INFO for more information or www.flu.gov

For the latest information on this topic as it relates to MGT, please check this “Rider Alert” section and the MGT Emergency Information Line at 763-494-5994.  If you have any questions, please email the Transit Administrator or call 763-494-6005.