Why colds get spread out in Japan easily (I think)

One of the first signs of season change in this country is the prevalence of colds among the young and old. Several other reasons can be attributed to this occurrence: unhealthy lifestyle, improper diet, lack of good sleep, etc.

One small thing, however, seems to be overlooked as a culprit in the quick spread of colds in Japan as it changes seasons: train behavior.

What exactly? Bear with me here.

Let’s begin with snorting on the train. A crowded train. Seriously, why is this behavior acceptable among the locals? Don’t they realize that the sound they make in a pin-drop quiet train is just so annoying? Or, am I just too sensitive for comfort? Either way, they simply don’t care.

But more importantly, I think what they should at least be mindful of is the virus they are spreading simply by snorting throughout their trip, without even covering their noses!

My understanding of the reason why people wear surgical masks is so they can prevent themselves from spreading germs from their colds. But now, it seems that that logic has to change. From the looks of it, the need to use those masks is more for those who currently do not have the colds than for those who do - to lessen their chances of catching one. People without colds now have to cover their noses just to avoid getting infected by those who carelessly snort their way.

Oh, and please don’t get me started with those who sneeze without covering!

In a country that has become so dependent on doctor-prescribed cold medicines, it baffles me that there are these kinds of people.

I only have respect for those who would rather go for natural cold remedies like drinking lots of liquids and getting enough sleep. That is, if that’s really what these people are doing. Still, I believe that is not an excuse to mindlessly snort and sneeze in a crowded train without any covers.