I had an initial discussion today with a representative from The Travelers Department at the Centers for Disease Control. I introduced myself as a practicing RN who is very compliant with infection control procedures, but I’m very concerned about the lack of infection control precautions taken by TSA agents conducting physical “pat down” security searches.
The representative, Lisa, advised that the individual going through security should request that the TSA agent change their gloves before performing the “pat down” search procedure if the gloves have not been changed.
This is troubling to say the least.
She did offer an email address to direct any questions or comments about TSA security search procedures. CDCinfo@CDC.gov
I will be determining if physician organizations concerned with infectious disease control have or are planning on weighing in on this potentially serious public health threat and will update you here.
