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Here’s an example of how easily and quickly these germs can spread, and how much of a role bills can play in spreading illnesses: researchers found that bills analyzed in winter were more likely than those tested in summer to carry bacteria that can cause pneumonia.

“Microbes are so important, are very ubiquitous and they surround us all the time,” lead investigator Jane Carlton, director of genome sequencing at the Center for Genomics and Systems Biology said.

So, What Are Other Germ-Infested Surfaces You Touch Every Day?

Per a recent study conducted by Kimberly-Clark Professional, a unit of the personal hygiene giant Kimberly-Clark Corp., there are quite a few surfaces that can carry dangerous germs.

The study researchers were aiming to obtain the levels of adenosine triphosphate, found in animal, mold, yeast, bacteria and vegetable cells. ATP levels give an idea of how many microorganisms are present on a surface. If a surface has an ATP level of 300 or above, that surface is considered a possible risk for illness. ATP levels of 100 or above mean that the surface could definitely be cleaner.

Some of the most germ-contaminated surfaces (over 300) included:

  • Gas Pump Handles
  • Office desks
  • Mailbox Handles
  • Escalator Rails
  • ATM Buttons
  • Parking Meters/Kiosks
  • Crosswalk Buttons
  • Vending Machine Buttons

The solution? You already know what it is – wash your hands and/or use hand sanitizer. If you wash your hands prior to touching your face or prior to eating or drinking, which should be the norm, you dramatically cut your infection risk.

Exactly How Dirty Is Your Money???  was originally published on elev8.com

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