With growing public concern over the outbreak and spread of the Coronavirus, it is important to use common sense to stay germ-free while in highly trafficked areas, like an ATM.

Disinfect Your Hands After Using an ATM

When working to avoid the Coronavirus, or even more common viruses like the flu, disinfect your hands and the surfaces they touch frequently.  Many banks are reporting a self-imposed increased use of hand sanitizer and disinfectant sprays, but it is important to be your own advocate.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), germs like the flu and Coronavirus can only live on your hands for approximately five minutes but can survive on touch screens, like those used on ATMs, for up to 48 hours.  The CDC recommends washing your hands or using hand sanitizer after using any public touch screen. 

Wash Your Hands After Handling Cash

It is also a good idea to wash or disinfect your hands after handling any amount of cash.  Cash changes hands so frequently, it is a common way for viruses to spread.

While it may be a good idea to keep cash on hand in case of an emergency, it is important to sanitize your hands after removing it from the bank or ATM.

According to Time, while viruses can live on most surfaces for up to 48 hours, viruses like the flu can live on paper money for up to 17 days.

“Disinfect, So Germs Don’t Collect”

At this current juncture, it is important to limit the spread of the Coronavirus as much as possible.  The solution is simple – keep surfaces clean, and disinfect or wash your hands frequently, especially after touching surfaces shared with the public.