TABLE OF CONTENTS

APPROVAL..................................................................................................................................... ii

DECLARATION............................................................................................................................. iii

DEDICATION................................................................................................................................. iv

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT................................................................................................................. v

ABSTRACT.................................................................................................................................... vi

TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................................................. vii

CHAPTER ONE............................................................................................................................... 1

1.0 Introduction............................................................................................................................ 1

1.1 Background of the Study........................................................................................................ 1

1.2 Aim and Objectives................................................................................................................ 2

1.3 Justification of the Study........................................................................................................ 3

1.4 Statement of the Research Problem........................................................................................ 3

CHAPTER TWO.............................................................................................................................. 4

2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW......................................................................................................... 4

2.1Microorganisms on Currency Notes......................................................................................... 4

2.2. Isolation of Microorganisms from Currency Notes................................................................ 5

2.3. Identification of Microorganisms: Techniques and Challenges.............................................. 6

2.4. Common Microorganisms Found on Currency Notes............................................................ 8

2.5 Risk of Staphylococcus aureus Infection.............................................................................. 10

2.6 Public Health Strategies to prevent the risk of infection transmission through circulation of currency notes     12

CHAPTER THREE......................................................................................................................... 16

3.0 Materials and Methods.......................................................................................................... 16

3.1 Materials............................................................................................................................... 16

3.2.1 Sample Collection.............................................................................................................. 16

3.2.2 Sample Labeling................................................................................................................ 16

3.2.3 Sample Preparation............................................................................................................ 16

3.3.1 Swab Inoculation............................................................................................................... 17

3.3.2 Incubation......................................................................................................................... 17

3.4 Laboratory Procedures.......................................................................................................... 17

CHAPTER FOUR........................................................................................................................... 18

4.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION............................................................................................. 18

4.1 Results.................................................................................................................................. 18

4.2 Discussion............................................................................................................................ 21

CHAPTER FIVE............................................................................................................................. 23

5.0 CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATIONS.................................................................... 23

5.1 Conclusion........................................................................................................................... 23

5.2 Recommendations................................................................................................................ 23

REFERENCES................................................................................................................................ 25

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

The circulation of currency is a significant aspect of daily life, facilitating trade and economic activities. However, money also serves as a vehicle for the transmission of pathogens, including bacteria, which can pose serious public health risks. The study of bacterial contamination on currency is crucial, particularly in markets where money changes hands frequently. Currency, whether coins or paper notes, passes through numerous hands and environments, accumulating various microorganisms along the way. Studies have shown that money can harbor a diverse array of bacteria, some of which are pathogenic and capable of causing diseases (Basavarajappa et al., 2015). The persistence of bacteria on money is facilitated by the materials used to manufacture currency and the conditions in which money is stored and handled (Angelakis et al., 2014).

In developing countries, including Nigeria, markets are hubs of economic activity where money changes hands rapidly. This frequent exchange increases the likelihood of microbial contamination. Research conducted via various regions has demonstrated significant bacterial contamination on currency notes and coins, indicating a potential public health hazard (Alemu, 2014). Commonly isolated bacteria from money include Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, among others (Fisher et al., 2009).

The Yantifa Market in Dutse, Nigeria, is a bustling trading center where diverse goods are bought and sold daily. The market attracts a large number of people, creating an environment ripe for the exchange of contaminated money. Previous studies in similar settings have highlighted the presence of pathogenic bacteria on currency, underscoring the need for targeted research to understand the specific bacterial species present in such environments (Emikpe et al., 2011).

Understanding the types and prevalence of bacteria on currency in Yantifa Market can inform public health interventions to reduce the risk of disease transmission. For instance, knowing the specific bacterial species can help in designing effective disinfection protocols and awareness campaigns about the importance of hand hygiene after handling money. Moreover, this information can be crucial for local health authorities in developing strategies to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases in the community (Singh et al., 2002).

This study aims to isolate and identify bacterial species associated with money circulated in Yantifa Market, providing a foundation for future research and public health initiatives. By identifying the bacterial contaminants, the research can contribute to a better understanding of the potential health risks associated with currency and suggest measures to protect public health.

1.2 Aim and Objectives

Aim: To isolate and identify bacterial species associated with money circulated in Yantifa Market, Dutse.

Objectives:

1. To isolate bacterial species, present on currency notes in circulation at Yantifa Market, Dutse
2. To identify the isolated bacterial species using biochemical test.
3. To provide recommendations on the potential public health implications of the identified bacterial specie

1.3 Justification of the Study

The widespread use of currency notes in daily transactions makes them a potential vector for the transmission of pathogenic microorganisms. In markets like Yantifa Market in Dutse, where currency changes hands frequently, the risk of bacterial contamination is particularly high. This poses a significant public health concern, especially in regions with limited access to healthcare and hygiene facilities. This research will provide valuable data specific to Yantifa Market, which can be used to improve public health measures in the area.

1.4 Statement of the Research Problem

Currency notes are an essential part of daily transactions, facilitating economic activities across various sectors. However, due to their extensive handling and circulation, they become potential vectors for the transmission of microbial pathogens, posing a significant public health risk. The Yantifa Market in Dutse, being a busy commercial hub, sees a high turnover of currency notes daily. This increases the likelihood of bacterial contamination on these notes, which can serve as fomites for disease-causing organisms. Despite the critical role that currency plays in the economy and its potential to harbor and spread infectious agents, there is a scanty of information regarding the specific bacterial species associated with currency notes in circulation at Yantifa Market. This this scanty of information have effects the development of effective strategies to mitigate the public health risks posed by contaminated currency. This study aims to address this gap by isolating and identifying bacterial species present on currency notes in circulation at Yantifa Market. By understanding the types of bacteria and their prevalence on currency, this study seeks to highlight the potential health risks and emphasize the need for effective measures to mitigate the risk of infection through contaminated currency.