Pilot Study of Microbiological Characterization of Banknotes Circulating in the City of Bucaramanga, Colombia

Abstract

Introduction. Banknotes are a potential means of transmission of microorganisms capable of producing diseases. This is the case of Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium distributed throughout Latin America, which causes infections and is resistant to commonly used antibiotics. The objective of the study is to perform a bacterial and fungal characterization of banknotes circulating in the city of Bucaramanga, and especially to identify some that may be related to public health problems. Methodology. Observational and quantitative study, with a sample of 50 banknotes (5 different denominations of 2 issue dates). Microorganisms were identified and quantified by seeding in peptone broth, then on Reasoner’s 2A agar (R2A), nutrient and selective, in addition to the use of analytical profile index (API) and light microscopy techniques. A statistical analysis of correlation of variables was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Results. Twenty-one genera and 12 species of bacteria were identified, as well as 3 genera and 2 species of filamentous fungi, including some that can cause infections such as Klesiella, Enterobacter, Listeria, Staphylococcus, Cryptococcus, and Aspergillus. Discussion. In comparison with international studies, this study identified fewer types of microorganisms, which is explained by the limitations of the techniques used and the level of local contamination. Conclusion. It was possible to establish that the degree of microbial contamination does not depend significantly or consistently on the date of issue or the denomination; but the identification of pathogens suggests that measures should be taken to limit their transmission by this route.