Global Journal of Biology, Agriculture & Health Sciences

Abstract

Are there Public Health Risks Associated with Physical Handling of Paper Money and Coins in Zambia? A Case Study of Chirundu Border Post at the Zambia/Zimbabwe International Boundary

Chansa Chomba,Ntaimo S Mwamainda

This study was carried out at Chirundu border post located on the Zambia - Zimbabwe international boundary which is one of the busiest entry/exit points. Data collection took place between November 2015 and June 2016. The aim of the study was to investigate public health risks associated with physical handling of money and suggest plausible measures to control certain personal habits as a way of addressing such public health concerns. The main objectives of the study were to; i) identify species of microbes found on paper and coin money, ii) compare microbial levels between large and small currency denominations, and iii) investigate money handling practices used by traders and their clients as sources of contamination and transmission of microbes of public health concern. The study methods involved use of questionnaires, interviews and collection of samples of paper and coin money for laboratory examinations to isolate common pathogens associated with currency. Results showed that there were total coliforms, feacal coliforms, and Escherichia coli. Lower denominations, K2 in particular had the heaviest load of microbes and lower in larger denominations. Public money handling practices showed ignorance of public health concerns as most men and women kept money in under garments where it was in direct contact with the skin while others used saliva when counting money. It was concluded that physical handling of money is a matter of public health concern. Further research is required to determine the levels of microbes at Automated Teller Machines as these could also act as points of pathogen transmission.

Published Date: 2016-10-07;