2020-03-17 Tue

Many people including President Donald Trump have stopped shaking hands because of fears about catching or passing the corona virus. Instead, they are turning to the Indian greeting tradition of saying ‘Namaste’. But one thing that is difficult to avoid touching is money.

What if someone with COVID-19 has handled banknotes or coins before you?

According to the World Health Organization, the public should exercise care when handling potentially infectious banknotes. We all well aware that money changes hands frequently and can pick up all sorts of bacteria and viruses. It’s best to ditch banknotes in favor of contactless payments as COVID-19 might be able to survive on the surface of banknotes. However, the WHO later clarified that it was not issuing specific guidance with regard to dirty money. Instead, it reiterated that one should wash hands, including after handling money, especially if they are eating or touching food.

Given COVID-19’s recent discovery, no scientific studies have been addressed specifically on banknotes or coins. Money may contain a host of infectious agents, including coronavirus at any given time regardless of the presence of an outbreak. While it is true that China and Korea have taken measures to sanitize money, these moves are based on theoretical concerns.

The best defense is simple: always wash your hands thoroughly after coming into contact with any kind of money. Stay safe.