Swedish and Danish banknotes appeared to be the dirtiest among other European monies, The Local writes citing the research results published by Oxford University.
On average the Swedish banknote is covered with 39.6 thousand bacteria, Danish – 40.3 thousands. The European banknote has about 26 thousand bacteria on it. The scientists note that even 26,000 bacteria are enough to cause a disease.
Euro was confirmed as the cleanest banknote with only 11 thousand bacteria. The Russian banknotes are dirty enough with 30 thousand bacteria.
There is no information which types of bacteria were discovered on the banknotes, but it was mentioned that they can cause respiratory diseases and ones of the excretory system and lead to poisoning. Previous researches mentioned Klebsiella and Enterobacter.
Banknotes from 15 countries were investigated for bacteria. There are 27 countries-members in the European Union but some of them still use their national currencies. The eurozone consists of 17 countries. The following countries have not adopted the euro: Denmark, Sweden, United Kingdom, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and Hungary. Latvia is to enter eurozone in 2014.
According to the research conducted by MasterCard, which results were released on March 26, 83% of the Europeans are sure that cash money is dirty with dangerous bacteria. Besides, most people think that money is the dirtiest thing.