According to a study cited by Reader’s Digest, airport security boxes and trays are the most contaminated surfaces in the entire terminal, showing higher rates of viral genetic material than any other location tested, including restrooms.

According to Dr Steven Goldberg, about 50% of these trays contain traces of respiratory, gastrointestinal viruses and other pathogens that can survive for hours or days without disinfection.

For this reason, experts warn that you should never place items that come into contact with your face, such as earphones and headphones, directly on these surfaces, as they serve as a direct bridge for germs to enter the ears, nose and mouth.

The same care should be applied to mobile phones, tablets and sunglasses, which are constantly handled and placed against the face, as well as sensitive objects such as medications, wallets and travel pillows.

The fundamental recommendation to avoid contact with viruses such as rhinovirus or coronavirus is to keep all these items inside your bag or backpack (or in a zippered jacket pocket) before placing them on the security conveyor belt.

By using your luggage as a protective barrier, you prevent your personal belongings from absorbing the bacterial load from the bottom of the boxes.

If direct contact is unavoidable, it is crucial to disinfect the items afterwards and, above all, to wash your hands before consuming any food or drink after passing through the security zone.