Experts say people that we should worry less about touching doorknobs and more about our keyboards and telephones when it comes to avoiding germs.

"Doorknobs are usually on the low side," said Gerba, who has conducted dozens of surveys of bacteria and viruses in workplaces and homes. "I guess they are not moist. Never fear a doorknob." ... Two computer keyboards, for example, carried far more bacteria than an elevator button, the handles and button on the communal microwave oven or the office water fountain, an analysis by Gerba's lab found. (CNN.com)

December 04, 2005

A new, more dangerous strain of a germ that has long caused diarrhea in hospital patients is now widespread in the United States, causing severe, sometimes deadly outbreaks around the country, researchers reported yesterday.

Strains of the germ have been detected among people who have not been in a hospital, raising alarm that the infection may be emerging more widely and posing a broader public health threat, the researchers said. (Washington Post)

Posted by news editor | Filed under: Germs

October 23, 2005

Antibacterial soaps and washes aren't any better than plain, old soap and water for fighting illness in the household, says a panel of federal health advisers.

They warned manufacturers they will have to prove their products' benefits or they may be restricted from marketing them. (Washington Post)

Posted by news editor | Filed under: Germs