COVID-19 Testing Program for Transit Workers Getting Results

COVID-19 testing at MTA bus depots, rail yards, and other transit properties, identified 20 workers who had the contagious virus – but didn’t know it. As a result, those 20 workers managed to get medical attention, and quarantine themselves, more quickly. Testing continues to take place at bus and subway locations across the system to impede the spread.

]“This is exactly why we asked for this testing and screening program - to identify transit workers with the virus before they show symptoms like fever and fatigue,” TWU Local 100 President Tony Utano said. “This enables our members to get medical attention more quickly, and isolate themselves at home, so they don’t inadvertently pass the virus to others on the job or in their community.”

TWU Local 100 strongly advocated for this workforce screening initiative, starting with the release of our 10-Point Plan for a Re-Opened NYC in the spring. It is an ongoing program, and the schedule of locations is updated weekly on the MTA portal. Since late October, 3,027 workers have been tested on Transit property with 20 positive results. Another 278 visited a Northwell Urgent Care center for testing, 18 tested positive.

Transit workers are testing positive for COVID-19 at a lower rate than the citywide average, which has been at approximately 3%. The rate for workers who were tested at work is .66 percent. The positivity rate for transit workers, including the Northwell testing, is approximately 1%.

“We are working hard to fight this virus,” Utano said. “The vice presidents and officers are constantly monitoring the situation and pushing the MTA to do more. We have to remain vigilant and work together, and that includes wearing your masks, especially when indoors.”