Occurrence of ESBL, MRSA and VRE pathogens in contaminated banknotes in Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Paper currency has an important role in the transmission of pathogenic microorganisms and presents a
moderate risk to public health. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial strains are increasingly being
reported. The objective of this study was determination of microbial contaminants and resistant
pathogenic strains mainly ESBL, MRSA and VRE of banknotes in circulation in holy Makkah city, Saudi
Arabia. A total of 50 samples of Saudi banknotes were studied for isolation of contaminating bacteria,
ESBL production, MRSA and VRE using standard laboratory procedures. Ninety two percent of the
sample banknotes were found to be contaminated by bacteria or fungi. A total of 67 bacterial isolates
were obtained. Three fungal species were isolated, two Candida albicans and one Aspergillus sp. The
highest number of isolates were coagulase negative Staphylococci (23.9%) followed by E. coli (19.4%)
while Salmonella and Proteus species were the least isolate (1.5%). ESBL producing bacteria were found
to be 13.4% while MRSA and VRE were found to be 10.4% and 4.5% respectively. The circulating currency
could serve as a vehicle for transmission of drug resistant pathogens or potential organisms.
Disinfection of the currencies in banks and proper hand hygiene and overall hygiene are recommended.