BIOS: Technology Means Business

Many employees fail to clean their personal workspace, which could ultimately lead to more sick days, according to an online poll conducted by IOGEAR.

It's a no-brainer that germs are contagious, but how exactly are they spread throughout the office? While human-to-human contact is one well-known way to catch the flu, what most people don't realise is that viruses and pathogens can also be passed on through contaminated PC accessories.

IOGEAR's eye-opening survey found that 20% of employees never clean their computer peripherals, and 35% share them with co-workers. A shocking 13% of the 203 respondents admitted to not always washing their hands after visiting the toilet.

Additionally, a recent study led by Dr. Owen Hendley of the University of Virginia Health System, U.S., provides evidence that it's possible for people infected with rhinovirus, the cause of many colds, to leave germs on everyday objects that can infect others.

"It takes more than good personal hygiene to stay healthy in the workplace, especially this time of the year," said Miranda Su, vice president of sales and marketing at IOGEAR. "Germs have a field day on desks and computer accessories. Finding the extra time to clean these areas and devices can help decrease the chances of viruses spreading through the office during the upcoming cold and flu season."

IOGEAR recommends employees take precautions to stay in good health at the office, including: cleaning desktop work areas and computing equipment regularly; washing hands frequently; encouraging co-workers to stay home when ill; and washing hands before touching objects after coughing or sneezing.

IOGEAR introduced a Wireless Laser Mouse with nanocoating earlier this year that can allegedly prevent or deactivate bacteria with 99% efficiency, thanks to an outer layer consisting of titanium oxide and silver nanoparticles. At next month's 2007 International CES, the company will introduce additional germ-free peripherals to help minimise desktop pathogens.

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