Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) cost U.S. hospitals
$8.1 billion in 2006, according to a recently released study by the Centers for
Disease Control. Even more alarmingly, the CDC reports 48,000 deaths in the
same year can be attributed to illnesses caught during hospital stays.
Studies show that commonly shared hospital keyboards and
mice in particular are infectious hazard points that are difficult to
disinfect. Bacteria can grow and live on keyboards for up to 24 hours, making
it easy for them to spread harmful bacterial infections.
Econo-Keys, a leading manufacturer of medical keyboards and
mice, recently introduced the EKW-M, a completely waterproof, wireless mouse
designed for the healthcare community.
Adding the convenience of RF-wireless technology to
Econo-Keys’ full line of infection-control products, the EKW-M can be easily
disinfected with any hospital-grade cleaning agent. Because it eliminates the
clutter of cables, the EKW-M may also be submersed in the sink for quick and
effective cleaning.
Available in both white and black, the smooth-surfaced EKW-M
has no cracks or crevices where harmful bacteria can grow. The mouse has three
scrolling buttons, along with left-and right-click buttons, ergonomically
located on the top surface. In addition, the mouse utilizes optical laser
tracking technology for premium input performance.
The EKW-M operates on two AAA batteries and USB dongle
(included). The plug-and-play device requires no additional software or
drivers.