Abstract

BACTERIAL CONTAMINATION OF INDIAN PAPER CURRENCY AND COINS

Anuranjini C.*, Dona Alex and Reema K.

Abstract

Paper currency and coins serves as vehicles for the transmission of microorganisms since people of all categories use them. This may be due to the deposition of the moisture on the paper currencies, which provides a favourable condition for the microorganisms to grow on it. The objective of this study was to identify the microorganisms present on the currency notes and coins circulating in the community. A total of 30 currency notes and 30 coins were randomly collected from people of different categories. Microorganisms were identified using standardized microbiological techniques. Microorganisms were isolated from 100% of currency notes and 90% from coins. Our studies has shown the presence of various pathogenic microorganism such as E.coli, Klebsiella, S.aureus and Acinetobacter which are known to be involved in transmitting diseases in the community. The presence of high microbial load on currency notes and coins reveals that we must pay special attention while handling money.

Keywords: Paper currency, E. coli, Klebsiella, S. aureus and Acinetobacter