1.1 Background of the study

Bacteria are members of tiny single celled micro- organisms which can either be parasitic or free living which are almost found everywhere on earth. There are members of recognized phyla- the dominant ones are: proteobacteria, firmicutes, Actinobacteria. The bacteria that cause health problems fall in the phylum proteobacteria. Examples of such bacteria are; E. coli, Salmonella spp, vibrio spp, Helicobacteria and numerous other genera (Alan, 2007). The possibility that bacteria can be found almost everywhere on earth also makes it possible in transmission on many contact surfaces. Many scientists have conducted research on transmission of microbes via (Money) currency.

Money is used as medium of exchange for goods and services, settlement of debts and for differed payments in economic activities. It might act as formites or environmental vehicles for the transmission of potential microbes. The use of paper and polymer currency for every type of commerce makes it susceptible for germs contamination, with the lower- denomination notes receiving the most handling and thus, the most contamination because they are exchanged frequently (Gadsby, 1998) and (Uneke, 2007).

In Nigeria, the currency is highly abused especially in the manner in which it is handled in transactions. Presently, it is commonly seen faded, torn, stapled, cello- taped, squeezed, and writings on them.

As the result of daily transactions, money is often contaminated with germs. The contamination of the Naira notes could as well be from the atmosphere, during production, storage, usage or handling (Matur et al., 2008). Daily transaction has made the naira notes to pass through many hands or is placed in a dirty environment and pathogenic organisms become imposed on them.

Awodi et al., (2002), reported that, the source of contamination could be as a result of poor or negative money handling or practices like spraying around during ceremonies; here the notes are sprayed on the celebrant(s) and in the process fall on the ground where a large number of people dancing, step on them with soiled shoes on bare ground. Also, keeping them in stockings, brassieres by individuals and tongue- wets of fingers with saliva or use of contaminated water to lubricate the hands when counting, failure to wash hands after visiting toilet and touching of naira notes with dirty hands could be responsible for the microbial contamination (Ameh and Balogun, 1997). When hands used in cleaning up one’s self after going to the toilet (passing out faeces) are not properly washed and are used in touching money notes in any way, there is tendency that there will be contamination with trophozite of the developed parasite or bacteria (Orji et al., 2012).

1.2 Statement of the problem 

Transition of communicable diseases is generally on the increase in underdeveloped counties because of poor health management practices. People adopt many practices to prevent infectious diseases, while leaving the fact that, most infections are contacted through contact surfaces; for example, currency notes in circulation (Elumalai and David, 2012).

1.3 Aim

The aim of this work is to isolate and identify bacteria prevalent among Nigerian currency notes in selected areas in and around Wukari metropolis, Taraba State.

1.4 Objectives

 The objectives of this research work are to isolate and identify bacteria through culturing and gram staining, by use of microscope and identification through biochemical reactions. The research work is to also create awareness among the populace on the danger of transmission of diseases through contact surfaces like currency notes.

1.4     Significance of the study

This study will be of significant importance to the people of Wukari metropolis as it will guide the people in the effort to minimize bacteria contact. The study will also be significant to students and researchers as it will serve as a reference material for further or related research.

1.5     Scope of the study

This work involves Isolation and identification of bacterial from naira note in Taraba State. It also looks at the bacteria prevalent among selected Nigerian currency.