public transit: public health threat

starting my new job downtown means taking public transit.  i am all for the convenience and cost of riding public transit, but i have to admit i am completely disgusted when doing so.  never have i encountered so many ill people in one confined, claustrophobic space.  i know it doesn't do any good, but whenever someone sneezes or coughs i hold my breath. i imagine little germs floating everywhere and it grosses me out.  i race off the bus to wash my hands.