View Full Version : Free Style Libre Continuous Glucose monitor
I've just started to wear one of these relatively new CGM. They attach to the back of the upper arm by a very stickie glue and cannot be taken off and on. They are good for 14 days and each costs around $75, or so. It's mostly plastic but it has got some metal bits in it. Size is about the same as a €2/£0.5 coin.
I don't have a prescription for it (Not required here) but I will have my insulin pens/prescriptions with me.
Before taking my first flight, next Thursday, I thought I would seek knowledge from the Pprunesphere.
I'm hoping that it won't set off the metal scanner, but realise that it likely will. Have security teams been briefed on their existence? Do they know that they shouldn't be taken off, and can't be reapplied?
Any personal experiences will be valued highly.
PS. The manufacturer says no issues for device from metal detector or X-ray, I'm more worried about the human element.
Heathrow Harry
5th Sep 2016, 11:08
might have issues without a medical letter................
PAXboy
5th Sep 2016, 11:46
Agreed that humans will need 'coaching'. Can you get manufacturer's brochure/leaflet to show that it's a real 'thing'? As an experienced traveller, you'll probably have decided to declare it before scanning. On a practical note - it sounds like an excellent solution for diabetics.
We look forward to hearing from - safely at your destination. Although if that's the USA = Good Luck!
HH, I've got one - although I've never understood why anyone would accept one. In over 40 years of travelling while diabetic I've never been asked for one.
Paxboy. I learned that it is better to keep your mouth shut, volunteer nothing and answer any questions, if asked.
Travelling to the UK, just for the weekend, but heading for Canada at the end of the month. Not expecting problems at GVA, not so certain about BRS or YVR, hence my question of anyone travelling before me.
If you are interested here's the UK website - although I understand that the NHS will not cover the costs. This despite being less expensive than finger pricks. http://www.freestylelibre.co.uk
I have travelled through Manchester, Amsterdam, Oslo, and Kirkenes, with my libre on, but as I also have various metal implants in my arm and elbow I don't know if it was the libre or them that set the detector off.
I explained what it was (it was covered in rocktape so they couldn't even see it, but nobody seemed bothered. I doubt they are specifically made aware of the libre system, but they should treat it the same an an insulin pump i.e should not be asked to remove it, but may need to be swabbed.
Worst case scenario I can foresee would be a case of having to explain what it is and having it swabbed for explosives. You can always make sure you handset is close to hand and show them how it works.
As the libre casing is plastic and the only metal is the small battery ( just a watch battery) and a small amount on the PCB you may find it won't even set of the detector.
I can certainly attest to the fact that the metal detectors and x rays have no effect on them.
Thanks caryh,
I've just removed my first one, after 14 days it expires and had a good look at it. I can't even see a battery so it must be very small. Other than the very thin needle I see no other metal.
Flight to LHR this afternoon, not expecting any problem, but will take my glucose finger sticks - just in case.
Edited to add: I'm not certain it has a battery. It's a passive NFC device which don't need power sources (like your NFC credit card). The packaging doesn't mention any special disposal requirements, which it would have to do if a battery was present.
Breezed through security at GVA, no beeps ... BRS next
Breezed through BRS security as well.
caryh
15th Sep 2016, 13:26
While the NFC functions don't need a battery the actual glucose monitoring side and the storing of 8 hours worth of data would need a power source.
I haven't opened a recent sensor, but the early sensors did contain a slim watch battery.
I might have to take my latest sensor to pieces now just to have look, but not for another 13 days as only activated yesterday.
caryh
15th Sep 2016, 13:31
Just noticed on the UK libre website if you look at the sensor specifications it states the power source is a silver oxide battery.
Same on the Swiss site. I'm curious as there are no disposal instructions which, in CH at least, must be given for non-removable batteries.
I'm very happy with the kit, it's a little out from finger pricks, but by a predictable amount.
Cracked open an expired sensor, and discovered a 'hearing aid' button battery and mother board populated with small chips.
This not for disposal in the household rubbish. Thinking I'll have to extract the battery and put the rest in the 'electronics' bin at the dechettarie. I'm surprised that Abbott doesn't include instructions on disposal. Perhaps I'll just send the expired sensors and applicators to their CEO's home address.
Still, not enough metal to set off scanners, yet.
PAXboy
22nd Sep 2016, 11:43
Try the scanners at IOM - they always seem to go off for me when, wearing identical metal items, the ones at LGW don't.
I thought that there are legal requirements about battery disposal information.