You need to have money; it makes the world go round. Sure, you can use a debit card for most transactions, but handling money is something that’s unavoidable. And it’s no secret that infectious bacteria and viruses live on your money. So, How sanitary is your currency?
While paper money tends to harbor more pathogens, coins have their own special mix of bacteria and viruses.
Dirty Money
Nearly 20 percent of coins are home to some form of bacteria or virus. While that number may not seem high, you might be surprised. If you were to take out all the change in your pockets and you had 20 coins, at least four would have harmful pathogens on them.
You become sick when viruses or bacteria enter your body in enough numbers to overcome your natural defense systems. Depending on the germ, you may have to be exposed to several thousand or as little as ten germs. An average coin can hold more than 1000 germs.
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Infectious Germs
Money is home to many types of infectious germs, some harmful and some harmless. The three main germs to be concerned about are Staphylococcus Aureus (Staph), Escherichi coli (E. coli) and Klebsiella enterobacter. Each of these germs lives within the human body and doesn’t cause infection unless you’re exposed to someone else’s natural flora.
Staph
Staph infections can range from a mild sore to a serious bloodstream infection. Staph can survive on coins for as long as 48 hours and can enter the body through mucous membranes or an open sore.
E. Coli
Escherichi coli infections can range from a mild stomach ache to violent diarrhea and vomiting that requires hospitalization. Most coins carrying pathogens contained E. coli. It’s transmitted through fecal matter and can enter your body through mucous membranes.
Klebsiella Enterobacter
Klebsiella infections aren’t a common thing, but can be quite serious when they happen. Klebsiella pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can lead to death if left untreated.
Protect Yourself
By now you’re thinking you never want to touch money again, right? Chances of contacting an infection from your currency aren’t that high, but you should still take some precautions.
Hand washing is still the best defense against illness. Washing hands before and after eating, after using the restroom, and after sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose can prevent infection. Use warm, running water and antibacterial soap for the best cleaning possible. If soap and water aren’t an option, use sanitizing gel or foam instead.
Money is dirty, no doubt about it. But you can safeguard against a germ invasion by practicing simple hygiene.


