Amtrak is intensifying its cleaning protocol for trains and stations and waiving reservation change fees through the end of April in response to the coronavirus threat.

The rail service Wednesday issued a statement detailing the increased cleaning measures as a safety move, adding that it has had no confirmed cases of coronavirus exposure to passengers and employees and there are no current travel restrictions. 

Amtrak says it plans to accelerate cleaning frequency on trains and at stations, sometimes on an hourly basis, and will increase the use of disinfectant to wipe down handrails, doorknobs, handles and restrooms. Additional antibacterial products, including sanitizers and wipes, will be provided at stations, on trains and in employee work areas.  

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Amtrak also promised to update inventories of gloves, antibacterial products and bathroom soap and to provide posters and instructional videos detailing how to reduce risk.

Acknowledging customer concerns, however, Amtrak pledged to waive change fees on existing or new reservations made before April 30. There may be an increased cost if the new itinerary is more expensive than the original fare that was purchased.

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“Passenger and employee safety is Amtrak’s top priority.  We continue to monitor the coronavirus situation closely in the United States and elsewhere.  Our medical, public health and emergency management teams are in contact with appropriate officials across our network to maintain awareness of the latest information,” the statement from Amtrak said.

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