China to sanitize old banknotes to stop spread of virus

China has started to disinfect banknotes in its efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

According to reports, "cash from key areas" have been withdrawn so officials can "disinfect them with ultraviolet or high temperature, and store them for more than 14 days" before recirculating them. 

Meanwhile, China’s central bank has pumped in billions in new notes.

The measures are intended to "secure the public's safety and health when using cash," announced Fan Yifei, deputy governor of China's central bank.