Living in the times of COVID-19 and Monkeypox means we have to be extra conscious when traveling. No one wants to spend their vacation sick and isolated from the outside world.
Most travelers think that public bathrooms are the germiest places, but there are other areas to be aware of.
The Lysol Pro Solutions’ scientists recently released a study of the geekiest areas while traveling. They tested contaminant levels in fifteen hotels in the U.S., ten airplanes, and one airport.
The results are shocking.
Related: Scary Video Reveals How Easily One Cough Can Spread On Airplanes
How were the areas analyzed?
The team of scientists used the ATP method (adenosine triphosphate) which uses swab tests to measure germs on surfaces.
“In this era of heightened germ awareness, activities such as using public transport and staying in a hotel still concern many Americans,” says Dr. Lisa Ackerley, Director, Medical and Scientific Engagement, Hygiene, Lysol Pro Solutions.
Dr. Ackerley goes on to say, “It’s critical that businesses in these sectors understand how germs spread in hotels and planes and take the necessary steps to make people feel confident as they return to traveling this summer.”
While the swab test can detect bacteria levels, it is not able to detect viruses. The test is able to detect all bacteria and isn’t able to determine the difference between ‘good’ bacteria and ‘bad’ bacteria.
The results are in
The test really concentrated on everywhere a traveler could potentially come in contact with while in transit. This includes airport check-in lobbies, plane seats, hotel rooms, and common areas.
Airport check-in lobbies
The germiest areas in airport check-in lobbies are:
- Check-in kiosk pin pads
- Check-in countertops
- Countertops in the baggage office
Plane seats
The germiest areas in and around plane seats are:
- Seatbelt buckles and window shade handles tied at #1
- Latches on seat tray tables
- Dials on overhead air vents
Hotel rooms
The germiest areas in hotel rooms are:
- Toilet handles
- Television remotes and doorknobs tied at #2
- Desks, refrigerator handles, and nightstands tied at #3
Common areas in hotels
The germiest areas in hotel common areas are:
- Elevator buttons
- Luggage cart handrails
- Bathroom doors, elevator handrails, and front desks tied at #3
How to not get sick while traveling
There are some things you can do while traveling to avoid getting sick.
-Always carry sanitizing wipes and wipe down areas you come in contact with
-Wash your hands frequently
-Always carry hand sanitizer for the times when you’re not able to wash your hands
-Be aware and try to social distance yourself from other people
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