VANTAA, Finland -- You may be surprised to know that the most germ-covered item in an airport is something we're all required to touch -- the bins at the TSA security checkpoint.
A new study, published in the journal BMC Infectious Diseases, shows the bins where travelers place their shoes, liquids, and carry-ons are basically a hotbed for viruses.
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Researchers swabbed and examined 90 different surfaces -- stairs, escalators, and bins -- inside Helsinki Airport during Feb. 2016 at the peak period of the 2015-16 annual influenza epidemic in Finland.
In those samples, 10 different respiratory viruses, like the common cold, were found in 10 percent of the samples.
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Yet, viruses were found in half of the samples taken from security trays; however, no viruses were detected on toilet bowls, handles, flush buttons, or on stall door locks.
To help germs from spreading, experts encourage using hand sanitizer and hand washing frequently.