During the airport security screening process, many disabled people and wheelchair users come into direct contact with TSA Officers. During the present coronavirus pandemic, physical contact through full-body pat downs exposes those travelers to additional risk of infection.
The Transportation Security Administration is tracking all cases of infection in their officers, and has asked me to distribute the following information.
This map identifies states and airports where TSA Officers have tested positive for the Coronavirus:
In a written release, TSA stated that it “is working with the CDC and state and local health departments to monitor local situations as well as the health and safety of our employees and the traveling public. Impacted security checkpoints may close as needed, so you may be redirected to other security screening checkpoints at the airport. TSA officers remain dedicated to their mission to ensure that travelers can get to their destinations as safely and securely as possible.”
The following chart lists the airports and checkpoints where infected officers have worked and come into contact with members of the public:
According to the chart, 14 officers have tested positive in six states and at eight different airports.
I have asked TSA to disclose the gender of each infected officer, but was told it will not be provided due to privacy concerns. I disagree and believe that such information is important, as it will allow passengers who have received physical pat downs to determine if they are at increased risk for exposure.
If you are still traveling by air during this time of uncertainty, please be sure that the TSA Officer uses a new pair of gloves before touching you, and also wash your hands following the screening.
For the most up-to-date information, visit tsa.gov/coronavirus.
