Originally Posted by
chollie
TSA's argument (and it has some merit) would be that there are germs everywhere. Pax with known immune system weaknesses should already be taking extra precautions every where they go.
For those pax with normal immune systems, well....we've gone over a decade without an outbreak of something at the checkpoint, so clearly that proves that the risk is low to non-existent.
I put 'checkpoint socks' on before the TDC and remove them after the checkpoint because I don't want to put filthy feet back into my shoes. I'm less worried about the general filth than I am about cross-contaminated swabs (and what that can lead to) and hands running through my hair (glove change, please). I do not want to pick up something disgusting like head lice. I'm amazed when I see a TSO running hands through pax hair and then touching his/her own hair without changing gloves. Not a risk I would take.
What about the risk for those who have compromised immune systems? What about those who might have picked up something untraceable to the checkpoint and have been severely sickened and even died? Even one death from a bacteria or virus acquired at a checkpoint is one too many.
I'd like to see some stats on illness among screeners at checkpoints; that could tell us something about what diseases are passed through contact with passengers.
I absolutely cannot accept that bacteria and viruses are not spread at checkpoints.
P.S. I know that the CDC has concerns about checkpoints but won't "voice" them.