11/06/2026
Dexcom G7 - alternative screening ✈️🧳
We've had this discussion before and I'm grateful for your previous replies.
As you know I'm passionate about making sure people with diabetes receive clear information about travelling with medical devices.
Ive previously shared your feedback and advice and advised your consumers to contact your department if a devices have been compromised.
I understand travellers are stressed when they see security open Dexcom boxes and worry about the device being compromised. I'm constantly trying to explain the outer box of the Dexcom sensor is a non sterile cardboard box.
Its the individual Dexcom sensors with sterile twist tabs we don't want security to open. Correct. Hope that makes sense.
Good morning Deb
Thank you for raising this again and for the continued advocacy you provide to travellers managing diabetes.
What you explained is accurate and makes complete sense. The outer Dexcom box being non-sterile can be opened by security if required for inspection purposes. The individual applicator/sensor (with twist tabs) are the critical components that should not be opened or tampered with, as this would compromise sterility and usability. This distinction is important, and we strongly encourage travellers to clearly communicate this to screening officers when requesting alternative screening.
That said, I’d like to clarify the position regarding airport screening in Australia from a technical support and advisory perspective.
From a professional standpoint, it is not accurate to state that airport security officers are “not permitted under the law” to open any medical devices. Under Australian aviation security requirements, screening officers are authorised to inspect items, including medical-related items, where necessary to resolve a security concern. This may involve visual inspection, physical examination, or trace detection methods.
From a technical support perspective, we recognise that this process can be concerning for travellers. Where screening results in uncertainty about device integrity, AMSL/Dexcom will continue to support customers and address any issues or concerns that may arise as a result of screening.
We strongly recommend that travellers:
Proactively advise screening officers about their medical devices
Request alternative screening if required (e.g. visual inspection or swabbing)
Clearly indicate that while the outer box may be opened, the sealed sterile components should remain unopened
Thank you again for your ongoing efforts to ensure travellers are well-informed and supported.
Kind regards,
Technical Support Supervisor – ANZ | Dexcom Australia
