Travellers are being warned to take extra precautions when jetting away this summer - after a grim study found human faeces all over airport public toilets.
A study has found that airport toilets have tested positive for “extremely high and concerning levels” of human poo.
Experts found sky high level of faecal bacteria contamination across UK airports and airplane toilets.
The lab tests revealed the worrying levels of damaging bacteria, which experts have now warned could leave holidaymakers extremely ill before they have even got to their destination.
The lab research, which was commissioned by luxury bathroom retailer Sanctuary Bathrooms, found that the loos in public toilets in both airports and airplanes contained more than 32,000 colony-forming units (CFUs) of faecal streptococci - a bacteria commonly found in human waste.
The testers swabbed toilets for several common bacteria which is known to cause illness and infections including E. Coli, Staphylococcus (Staph), and those responsible for food poisoning.
Reports found that while these bacteria were present at low levels, it was the alarmingly high concentration of human waste bacteria, such as faecal streptococci, that made aviation toilets the filthiest.
James Roberts, Director at Sanctuary Bathrooms, said: "The data shows a substantially high amount of bacteria that could have a detrimental effect on health - not just abroad but also on your return back home, potentially spoiling holidays for many passengers. This was highlighted as a significant cause for concern."
The experts released a number of tips to help you travel safely over this summer, when levels of passengers in airports are at their highest including using antibacterial wipes on toilet flush buttons and taps, taking hand sanitiser and using it even after washing your hands in the toilets, closing the lid before flushing and washing your hands thoroughly each time you visit the bathroom.
Mr Roberts added: “These steps are quick, easy, and could prevent a holiday from turning into a health nightmare.”
