Does the Coronavirus Spread Through Cash?

Is it possible to contract the Coronavirus by handling cash? This is a question on many people's minds right now. Read on to discover the answer and gain valuable insights into this pressing concern.

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As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, the Ministry of Health has issued recommendations to help protect oneself and others from the virus. To ensure safety, it is important to maintain hygiene at home and avoid using public amenities. Recently, there have been concerns about the possibility of contracting the virus from cash transactions. But is this true? Let’s find out.

Reference

Can COVID-19 Be Transmitted Through Cash?

According to scientists, the COVID-19 virus can spread through fine particles in the air. In fact, human flu viruses are known to survive on banknotes and can be transmitted through touch. Paper money, polymer money, and coins all pose potential risks for transmitting infectious agents and are a concern for public health. Cash changes hands frequently, increasing the risk of exposure to viruses, including the novel coronavirus.

Given the evidence of viruses on door handles, it is plausible for viruses to be present on banknotes. A 2011 study on the survival of the SARS virus found that it could remain viable on smooth surfaces for more than five days at temperatures of 22-25°C and relative humidity of 40-50% (typical conditions in air-conditioned rooms). However, the virus’ viability decreased rapidly at higher temperatures and humidity (for example, at 38°C and relative humidity > 95%, the virus’ viability decreased by more than 1,000 times). As COVID-19 (nCoV) is very similar to SARS, its survival in the environment is likely to be similar” – said TS. Nguyen Hong Vu (a molecular biology researcher at the City of Hope National Medical Research Institute in California, USA)

Additionally, TS. Nguyen Hong Vu shared: “The survival of viruses in the environment depends on temperature, humidity, and sunlight. Compared to a doorknob in an enclosed house, viruses on banknotes have a shorter lifespan. To stay safe during an outbreak, it is recommended to wash your hands with soap after handling cash.”

In conclusion, it is possible to contract COVID-19 through the use of cash. To minimize the risk of infection, consider shifting to digital payment methods and embracing the conveniences of e-commerce instead of relying on physical interactions and cash transactions during this COVID-19 outbreak.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, it is possible for the coronavirus to spread through cash. The virus can survive on surfaces, including banknotes and coins, for several days. However, the risk of transmission through cash is relatively low compared to other forms of close contact, such as coughing or sneezing.

The coronavirus can survive on surfaces for varying amounts of time, depending on the material and environmental conditions. On average, it can survive on banknotes for up to 28 days and on coins for up to 72 hours.

To reduce the risk of transmission when using cash, it is recommended to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after handling money. Avoiding touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, after handling cash is also advised.

Yes, during the pandemic, it is recommended to use contactless payment methods where possible to reduce the risk of transmission. This includes using credit and debit cards, mobile payments, or online banking transfers.

If you want to disinfect cash, it is recommended to use a gentle cleaning method to avoid damaging the bills or coins. You can try using a mild soap and water solution, or a disinfectant wipe, and then allowing the cash to air dry completely before handling it.
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