Ok. I was on the "L" in Chicago going downtown. Imagine being on the train standing up. It is packed.

Anyways, a girl standing up starts vomiting. There is no where to go. You cannot move. She continues to vomit.

You can imagine how many times I gagged.

My question is of course what can we do to help her and of course myself.

1. Some type of portable bag that fits in your pocket that you can pull out?
2. Some type of mask?

Any suggestions?

Ahh, the "L"...

If you Google/Froogle "fold flat mask" you'll find a much of disposable masks that would suit your purpose. Not vomit-proof but would keep the spittle out of your nose and mouth. I have a box of Fleet brand charcoal filter fold flat masks I purchased at my local drug store. I typically have a couple of those on me or at least a handkerchief.

I always have at least one, gallon sized freezer bag in my bag of tricks. If someone it tossing more than a gallon of cookies, their either contagous or someone will think they are and start a panic.

As for the mask, any N95 and Vicks vapor rub. That will keep things out, and kill your sense of smell for a while.

Here's an old thread discussing fold flat N95 masks.

I think I'd get off at the very next stop and wait for the next train.

A bag probably wouldn't have helped her as she most likely didn't have much notice before the "big moment". And if she'd felt it coming for a while most likely wouldn't have asked if anyone nearby had a bag.

A mask might have a helped a little, but I'd guess there isn't much of an aerosol-effect. The main objective is to open windows and get off the the train ASAP.

One of the train operators needs to be told as soon as possible too as this is a biohazard and fall hazard too.

I rode for three hours on a bus from Cork to Galway after a young child had thrown up. Not a whole lot you can do once it hits the floor.

And, altho it makes the bag a little harder to fold and store, a papertowel in the bottom of the bag helps prevent "backsplash" on the user. Zip locs are great for all kinds of stuff...

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Ah, Ireland.. Beautiful friendly place.. Loved the food too (especially compared to London)!!

I love ziplocks as well and keep a couple of quart sized ziplocks in my fatboy.