The Ministry of Health (Minsa) reported that the use of bicycles instead of public transport reduces the possibility of contagion of the new coronavirus. In this sense, the health sector promoted the use of this medium.
According to Alexandro Saco, director of Health Promotion of the Minsa, detailed that in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the bicycle has become an effective alternative that avoids crowds and reduces the possibility of contagion about public transport.
Also, he maintained that it is affordable, reliable, clean, ecological, and benefits health. It also avoids a sedentary lifestyle, which is one of the risk factors for chronic non-communicable diseases (diabetes, hypertension, obesity), and contributes to improving good air quality in cities and recovering public space.
According to the Minsa, according to recent studies, it is known that 220,000 residents of Metropolitan Lima regularly use bicycles as a means of transportation, that is, 3%. Of this universe, 40% said that they would be willing to continue traveling on two wheels when the state of emergency has ended, to avoid contagions and due to the speed of the transfer, which would lead to an increase in cyclists in the city.
“The COVID-19 pandemic generated crises in various areas. Likewise, it meant an opportunity to value health and life; many people increased their active lives and found cycling a way to stay healthy and prevent the risks of COVID-19 transmission in public transport”, said Alexandro Saco, director of Health Promotion of the Minsa.
In this sense, Alexandro Saco advised to keep the bicycle in good condition (brakes, tires, lights, chain, rudder, bell); wear a protective helmet, reflective vest, cycling gloves, and a face mask; and respect the regulations and traffic signs.