Coronavirus: People should desist from banknotes, “rather go cashless”- WHO warns

The increase of coronavirus has assumes pandemic proportion globally, and the World Health Organisation has warned people to desist from the use of banknotes, saying it could aid the transmission of the infectious disease.

The United Nations body, therefore, counselled people to rather go cashless when making purchases.

In the event where they handle money, people should make it a regular habit to wash their hands immediately, the WHO added.

The organisation warned that coronavirus could be on the surface of banknotes for many days, hence the need for people to stop the use of money for transactions as much as possible.

The global health body has also warned that coronavirus can be spread through contaminated objects, droplets and direct contact with infected patients.

According to WHO, “To stop the spread of the disease, people should use contactless payments where possible and wash their hands after handling cash.

“We know that money changes hands frequently and can pick up all sorts of bacteria and viruses.

“We would advise people to wash their hands after handling banknotes, and avoid touching their face.

“When possible, it would also be advisable to use contactless payments to reduce the risk of transmission,” WHO said.

The Telegraph said the Bank of England also recognised that banknotes “can carry bacteria or viruses” and therefore encouraged frequent hand washing.

Early February, Chinese and Korean banks embarked on the disinfection and segregation of used banknotes as part of efforts to originate the spread of the virus.

China’s central bank disclosed at a Press conference that: “Ultraviolet light or high temperature is being used to disinfect and sterilise banknotes, before the cash is sealed and stored for up to 14 days before being recirculated.”

“Like any other surface that large numbers of people come into contact with, notes can carry bacteria or viruses.

“However, the risk posed by handling a polymer note is no greater than touching any other common surface, such as handrails, doorknobs or credit cards,” the Bank of England said.