A study showed that the tray through the scanner door contained many cold viruses, which do not exist on toilet surfaces.
In addition to items or contact surfaces containing many bacteria and pathogens such as seats, aircraft cabins, ATMs, etc., passengers need to pay attention to the storage tray at the security door , according to Nytimes. At security checkpoints around the world, plastic trays imprinted with millions of passengers as they put their shoes, laptops, luggage and countless other items in to be passed through scanners.
According to some studies in Europe, these plastic trays contain many types of bacteria, including the germ of the flu. In 2016, scientists from the University of Nottingham (UK) and the National Institute of Health and Welfare (Finland) took samples from frequently touched surfaces at Helsinki International Airport during and after hours. Peak. They found that 50% of the plastic trays contained a group of viruses containing RNA that infects respiratory diseases, the germs that cause colds. These viruses do not survive on surfaces in toilets.
Security checkpoint at Helsinki airport. (Photo: Wilfredo Lee).
This research helps authorities devise strategies to improve public health and prevent diseases from spreading globally. Jonathan Van-Tam, a professor of health protection at the University of Nottingham, recently said that the research results will have the effect of raising people’s awareness about how to prevent disease in the cold season.
“There have been no previous studies that have focused on the presence of bacteria at airports,” said Niina Ikonen, a virologist in Finland. She added that the results of the study could spur new ideas to improve technology in the architecture and upgrade process of airports.
Finavia, the company that manages Helsinki’s airport, insists all surfaces at the airport are cleaned daily and trays at the security gates are cleaned regularly.
“For every passenger, what they can do is wash their hands properly. If you sneeze or cough, you need to cover your mouth with a handkerchief, tissue or sleeve. These simple steps can help prevent it. disease in public places, crowded with people,” said Mr. Van-Tam.