The long lines at airport security, masses of people, and heavy luggage can be frustrating and time consuming. When it is finally your turn, you take your laptop out of your bag, empty your pockets into a tray, put your carry on bags onto the table, and slip your shoes off and place them in a bin. As you walk through the detector either with socks on or barefoot, have you ever wondered if you could get a foot fungus?
Can you get foot fungus from walking on the floor?
Walking barefoot in an area where someone with foot fungus (also known as Athlete’s Foot) has walked is what spreads this condition. The fungus can live on any surface for some amount of time, meaning it is technically possible to get foot fungus from walking through airline security barefoot.
Am I definitely going to get foot fungus from walking barefoot through airport security?
No. There are several things that effect whether or not you may get Athlete’s Foot. Some people are genetically more susceptible to getting fungal infections than others.
In order to get an infection, the fungus has to enter your skin through an opening. This doesn’t have to be a large cut; it can be a small scratch that you can’t even see. Then, the fungus has to come in contact with this opening.
How can I avoid getting foot fungus at airport security?
- Wear shoes with socks (Socks are an extra barrier between you and the floor making it harder for the fungus to come in contact with your skin.)
- Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer (After getting through security, use a small amount of sanitizer to wipe your feet down.)
- Carry a clean pair of socks to change into after going through the check point
- Sign up for the TSA Pre Check program (You won’t have to remove your shoes.)
I think I may have foot fungus. What do I do?
Schedule an appointment with Dr. David Schlam at Hollowbrook Foot Specialists for a check up by calling (845) 298 – 9074 or by clicking here. There are treatments available, and the sooner you get help, the more likely you can get the infection under control.
By: David Schlam
