Isolation and identification of pathogenic bacteria and fungi from Indian Currency

Abstract

ABSTRACT   Microbial contamination plays a massive role in spreading diseases globally. Bacterial contamination of gram- positive, spore-forming bacteria, gram-negative rods, and fungus was tested on Indian rupee notes of various denominations. Bacteria and fungus were identified on almost all of the cash notes that were analyzed. Overall, our findings indicated that banknotes are contaminated with pathogenic germs and intestinal microorganisms and could be a source of severe infection. The present study recommends that paper currency be converted into plastic currency notes to avoid infections. Keywords: Contamination, fomites, Indian currency notes, infectious diseases, bacteria, fungi.