Jade Small
Jade Small
October 20, 2024 ·  3 min read

Airport Security Trays Carry More Cold Germs Than Toilets, Study Finds

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Nottingham in the UK and the Finnish National Institute for Health and Welfare has unveiled surprising findings about airport hygiene. Published in the journal BMC Infectious Diseases, the research highlights that those plastic trays at airport security might be the prime offenders in spreading germs.

Awareness is Key

As travelers place their belongings, including phones, passports, and laptops, into the plastic trays, it’s wise to have hand sanitizer at the ready. The study observed germ levels on various surfaces at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport during the winter of 2016, shedding light on how easily infections can spread in busy travel hubs.

The Findings

During their investigation, the researchers discovered viral presence on 10% of all tested surfaces. While this revelation may alarm germ-conscious travelers, other surfaces of concern included payment terminals in shops, handrails on staircases, passport checking counters, children’s play areas, and surprisingly, even the air itself. Notably, traces of rhinovirus, responsible for the common cold, and some signs of influenza were identified.

Surprising Results from the Restroom

Interestingly, the study found no evidence of respiratory viruses on toilet surfaces. Professor Jonathan Van Tram, a health protection expert from the University of Nottingham, emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding how viral infections spread. He stated that individuals can reduce the risk of contagion by practicing proper hand hygiene and using a handkerchief, tissue, or sleeve when coughing—especially in crowded spaces.

Suggestions for Improvement

Virology expert Niina Ikonen from the Finnish National Institute for Health and Welfare proposed that airports could benefit from improved design and maintenance strategies. The research team suggested implementing hand sanitization stations in areas where surfaces are frequently touched, such as right before and after the security screening process. Additionally, they recommended more frequent cleaning of the plastic trays and other high-contact surfaces.

Navigating Airport Hygiene

Travelers often have no choice but to handle these plastic security trays, unlike optional interactions with payment points in airport shops. This unavoidable contact can increase the likelihood of germ transmission. Being mindful of hygiene practices becomes essential to maintaining personal health during travel.

Onboard Awareness

Even after navigating airport germs, it’s important to recognize that airplanes are not much cleaner. A 2015 study conducted by Travelmath indicated that the tray tables on planes are the leading culprits for germ accumulation, with overhead air vents also ranking high on the list.

Staying Healthy While Traveling

Although touching these surfaces does not guarantee contracting a virus, being proactive about hygiene can help travelers stay healthy. Regular handwashing and keeping hand sanitizer within reach are highly recommended practices.

Conclusion: Travel Smart

In conclusion, staying aware of the germ hotspots in airports and airplanes is crucial for maintaining health while traveling. By practicing good hygiene and being mindful of interactions with commonly touched surfaces, travelers can significantly reduce their risk of picking up unwanted viruses. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

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