COMMUTERS AS A MAJOR CONTRIBUTOR TO THE SPREAD OF COMMUNICABLE DISEASES IN PUBLIC PLACES

ABSTRACT: This study was carried out to assess  commuters as a major contributor to the spread of communicable diseases in public places. Specifically, the study raised awareness on the role of commuters in spreading communicable diseases in public places, examined the knowledge of commuters on the awareness of their active involvement in the spread of communicable diseases and, suggested effective strategies to mitigate the spread of communicable diseases by commuters in public places. The study employed the survey descriptive research design. A total of 77 responses were validated from the survey. The study adopted the Health Belief Model. From the responses obtained and analysed, the findings revealed the factors that ways do commuters spread communicable diseases in public places include: through skin or mucuos membrane contact, through the air as droplets or aerosol particles, contact with a contaminated object or surface and through coughing and sneezing. Furthermore, the findings revealed that the effective strategies can be employed to mitigate the spread of communicable disease by commuters in public places include by coughing and sneezing into a tissue or a sleeve, reduction of touching of public objects or surfaces to a minimal level, washing of hands at every given opportunity and staying at home if you are sick. The study recommends commuters should endeavour to abide by the stipulated guidelines by the authorities concerning public health standard and commuters that are sick should stay at home or meet a health professional in order to be certified okay before travelling.