SEATTLE — Researchers with the University of Washington (UW) found meth and fentanyl residue is prevalent on public transit, but the risks from exposure to riders and operators is low.
The study examined results of surface and air samples taken on transit in the Seattle and Portland areas over the summer. All of the surface samples taken on buses had quantifiable methamphetamine and 48% tested positive for fentanyl, though the levels did not alarm health officials who spoke at a press conference to announce the results on Thursday.
“Based on what was measured, we would not expect to see a health effect from these concentrations,” said Dr. Scott Phillips of the Washington Poison Center.
Phillips added the data from the study, however, did not look at the potential impact of riders and passengers inhaling smoke or from long-term exposure to meth and fentanyl residue.
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