Vast sums of cash change hands every day. Germs automatically travel with it. But is that actually problematic?

"Pecunia non olet!" The Roman emperor Vespasian already knew that money doesn't stink. But what about the hygiene of modern means of payment? After all, coins and bills often change hands several times a day. In the process, a wide variety of germs travel unnoticed on the money. How contaminated is money really?

Coin money: no cause for concern

Coin money is comparatively unproblematic. The smooth surface offers little grip for bacteria. Copper coins such as the 1-, 2- and 5-cent coins even have an antibacterial effect. This is because the copper contained in the coins emits ions that bacteria do not tolerate well. It's not without reason that hospitals are increasingly using copper countertops and door handles. Silver has a similar effect. While coinage is therefore rather boring for bioscientists, the bills are interesting objects of investigation. Up to 3,000 different germs can be found on a single 5-euro note.

Fecal bacteria and salmonellae

Banknotes reveal: Despite running water in every home and well-equipped public toilets, banknotes are heavily contaminated. This is because fecal bacteria such as E.coli are found on banknotes. Salmonella can also be found on the cotton fibers of the paper. Even multi-resistant germs, i.e. germs that are insensitive to many antibiotics, can be detected. The longer a note is in circulation, the rougher its surface becomes and the germ load increases. Employees of the University Hospital in Essen have even found bacteria that cause mastitis in cows. In fact, however, cash is no more contaminated with germs than, for example, a bus stop. This is because cash is generally dry and does not provide a good living environment for germs.

Thaler, thaler, you must walk...

Scientists find a huge number of different germs on coins and bills, but the amount of individual bacteria is small. They are usually not enough to make a person really sick. Besides, the little culprits would first have to get into the human organism. Keeping money out of your mouth and washing your hands regularly are sufficient precautions. It becomes more critical where money and food come into contact, e.g. at the bakery or butcher. Many suppliers have recognized the problem and are taking precautions. Disposable gloves when packing products, which are taken off for checkout, are a good option. Ideally, one employee should handle the food and another should exclusively cashier. Payment machines that exclude contact with cash also offer protection.

Prevention and carefree use of cash

You can do a few things yourself to keep germ contamination on cash low. Banknotes carried loosely in a trouser pocket are like an incubator. In the moist warmth close to the body, the unwanted co-inhabitants thrive magnificently. However, if you wash your hands after a shopping spree, you are on the safe side. Whereby the money after a shopping tour is only one possible point of infection. Especially in the cold season, washing your hands after coming home offers good protection against flu & Co - you don't have to worry about the money or use online services like https://exnesscom.com/stocks-trading/.

Conclusion:

    Up to 3,000 different germs can be found on banknotes.
    Fecal germs and salmonella are widespread.
    Coinage containing copper is less contaminated; it disinfects itself.
    Cash is no more contaminated than door handles or grab rails in public transportation.
    Only when selling unpackaged food should caution be exercised.
    The germs on the money do not usually make you sick, but they do exercise the immune system.