Almost 90 % of people believe cash is the dirtiest thing they touch . An Oxford University study found an average of 100 bacteria on bank notes . Last year , employees of a U.S. store were hospitalized after handling potentially tainted cash . and it 's inevitable that germs accumulate on them . '' Health professionals advise basic hygiene - wash hands and avoid eye , nose and mouth contact after touching cash .
Almost 90 % of people believe cash is the dirtiest thing they touch . An Oxford University study found an average of 100 bacteria on bank notes . Last year , employees of a U.S. store were hospitalized after handling potentially tainted cash . Health professionals advise basic hygiene - wash hands and avoid eye , nose and mouth contact after touching cash .