Europe

The Louvre Is No Longer Accepting Cash Over Coronavirus Fears

​In an effort to relieve its employees' fears, the Louvre said it will only accept bank cards for the time being.

The Louvre Is No Longer Accepting Cash Over Coronavirus Fears
Christophe Ena / AP
SMS

The Louvre is no longer accepting cash due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The world's most-visited museum reopened for business on Wednesday after a two-day closure brought on by its staff's fears of catching the virus. In an effort to ease their anxieties, the Louvre told The Associated Press it will only accept bank cards for the time being.

But the Bank of France deemed the measure unnecessary, as "there is no proof that the coronavirus has been spread by euro banknotes." The bank also said vendors in the country technically have to accept cash, as it's a legal form of payment.

Staff at other popular French tourist attractions, including the Palace of Versailles and the Eiffel Tower, are also reportedly worried about handling cash from patrons. According to the World Health Organization's latest situation report, France has the second-highest number of coronavirus cases in Europe, with more than 200 confirmed cases as of Wednesday.

Contains footage from CNN.