FDA Clears Vioguard Self-Sanitizing Keyboard

VioguardLLC announces that the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared the companys first product, the Vioguard self-sanitizing computer keyboard, for use in healthcare settings. The product is the first FDA-cleared computer keyboard to use the germicidal properties of ultraviolet light (UV-C) to automatically clean its surfaces. UV-C is a proven killer of flu, MRSA and other harmful microorganisms.

Vioguards keyboard was developed specifically to address the need for continual disinfection efforts in the medical workplace. The Vioguard keyboard is the first computer peripheral that directly deals with the issue of cross-contamination among shared workstations, by automatically destroying deadly microorganisms such as MRSA.

We're very pleased with the FDA clearance, which substantiates our medical claims and allows hospitals and clinics to make use of this new tool, says Larry Ranta, president and CEO of Vioguard. "Conventional computer keyboards have been identified as a key point of transmission of viruses and bacteria, especially within the medical setting. The Vioguard keyboard takes the guesswork out of sanitization efforts, reduces labor costs, and helps fight the spread of harmful and often deadly superbugs."

Vioguard's FDA clearance is the latest in a series of announcements from the company. A clinical trial proving the keyboard's efficacy was recently published in the American Journal of Infection Control, and Vioguard's patent was awarded in December.

Since the early 20th century, ultraviolet germicidal irradiation has been studied and used for the sterilization of microorganisms. Microbes are uniquely vulnerable to the effects of UV light at specific wavelengths that contain just the right amount of energy to break down organic molecular bonds.

Based on independent laboratory testing, Vioguard has shown that the ultraviolet light generated by the keyboard's two 25-watt germicidal fluorescent lamps killed a minimum of 99.99 percent of harmful bacteria and viruses, including E. coli, MRSA, and other pathogens.

How it works: Vioguards self-sanitizing keyboard has the look and feel of a standard notebook keyboard, and requires no software or special hardware to function. A powerful microprocessor controls UV exposure, operation of the sensor, and monitors safety interlock switches and lamp status.

On a user-triggered or predetermined basis, the keyboard automatically retracts into its own clean, light-tight enclosure. The keyboard is then safely flooded with high power germicidal UV light. By waving a hand within inches of a built-in motion sensor, the motorized keyboard drawer quietly opens and presents a completely sanitized keyboard and touchpad.

Vioguard is currently seeking qualified partners to help bring the product to market.