Must employees wash hands after handling money?

It has been speculated that both paper currency and metal coins might act as fomites: inanimate objects that may be contaminated with infectious organisms and serve in their transmission. If this is so, then people who contact food would be required to wash their hands between handling money and touching food or food contact surfaces. In 1971, FDA asked the Treasury Department's Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) if paper currency could transmit disease organisms. BEP's reply stated that …specifications for currency paper require that it contain fungicidal agents…hav[ing] germicidal[al] characteristics …[which] retain their effectiveness throughout the life of the currency in circulation. Additionally, the inks used… on currency also contain ingredients which inhibit the growth of bacteria. A 1973 survey of 217 bills of various denominations found low number of organisms (1.46-167.26 per square centimeter), thus supporting BEP's position. The same survey tested 161 metal coins again finding low levels of organisms (19.50-413.29 per square centimeters). This information indicates that money does not support the growth or transfer of bacteria; i.e., it is not a "fomite".

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1. Does Public Health provide flu shots?
2. How does a food establishment obtain or renew a food permit?
3. Will there be spraying for mosquitoes this year; if so, when and where?
4. How can I dispose of Medical Waste or unwanted medication?
5. Are restaurant food handlers required to wear gloves?
6. Must employees wash hands after handling money?
7. I want to run a benefit dinner at my religious organization or club. Do I need a food permit from the Health Division? How do I apply?
8. My place of worship has a kitchen that has been inspected by the Board of Health. Why would we need a separate permit for special events?
9. Are certain people more susceptible to food borne illness?
10. What kind of water quality tests are required at semi public pool facilities?
11. How many times a year are semi public pools inspected?
12. Can children in diapers be allowed to swim in public pools?
13. Are there any specific requirements for pool operators or lifeguards?
14. Does the Town of Lexington license camps?
15. Is the camp prepared to handle medical emergencies?
16. Is there a certified lifeguard on duty during all aquatic activities at camp?
17. What are the procedures for dealing with serious injuries or illnesses at a camp?
18. What if my child needs to take medication during camping hours?
19. Is there a description of the camp's programs and activities?
20. What medical information should I supply to the camp?
21. What happens if my septic system fails inspection?
22. If my septic system fails, am I required to connect to the sewer system?
23. Does the Board of Health perform Title Five Inspections for homeowners?