Background: Since money is a means of trade that passes through several hands and increases the possibility of transmitting harmful microbes and consequent cross-contamination, it is one of the potential vectors for the transmission of illness.In addition to their denominational values, currency can harbor infections and serve as a medium for the spread of illness. Thus, the aim of this research was to examine and ascertain the level of bacterial contamination present in Libyan coins and banknotes that are in circulation in the markets of Benghazi, Libya.
Methods: The study’s currency notes were evaluated using microscopic, biochemical imaging, and microbiological culture methods.
Result: The study’s findings revealed that microbiological contaminations increased with decreasing money denominations, and that frequency % decreased with increasing isolations. Of the 10 centers that were chosen, cafes were the main source of tainted cash. In all currencies under examination, the most prevalent percentage of microorganisms are Shigella spp. and Serratia spp. 45 (29.0%) and Staphylococcus aureus 30 (19.4%). Pseudomonas spp. 20 (12.9%), Escherichia, Klebsiella, and Enterobacter spp. 5 (3.2%) are also often found.
Conclusions: The study’s findings demonstrated that currency notes may serve as a conduit for the spread of microbes that result in infectious illnesses, posing a risk to the public’s health for both individuals and the community.
Keywords: Currency, Bacterial isolates, Antimicrobial, Benghazi.
