ARE you at risk of attracting horrified stares by coughing in public? Here’s how to style it out:
On a busy train
Either point to your neighbour to insinuate that it is their fault, or turn coughs into sobs and claim you have got to the bit in the podcast that proves the man was not the killer. You won’t be called out because speaking is not a thing on public transport.
In the park
If there’s a tree around, allergies are your excuse. Be sure to shout the word ‘hayfever’ so loudly that everyone looks round, birds fly from trees and car alarms go off. Nobody must be left with reason to doubt your good health.
In the supermarket
Being kicked out the shop before you’ve had a chance to stock up on white wcider and spicy BBQ fajita mix would be a disaster. Carry a large jar of pickled onions and as soon as you feel the tiniest tickle in your throat, hurl it to the floor to create a distraction.
On the street
Immediately burst into song and whatever tune you choose, deliver it loud and proud. People will probably think you’ve lost your mind, which is understandable after all these weeks of confinement and better than them thinking you’ve got it.
At the school gate
If you’re in the mood to mess with people, simply segue into a coughing fit. Ham it up as much as you can, watch other parents battling with their consciences and enjoy a solid sixteen square metres of personal space wherever you go.
