Independent Laboratory Test Finds VIOlight's Ultraviolet Germicidal Bulb Effective in Killing 99.99% of the H1N1 Virus on Toothbrushes

YONKERS, N.Y., Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- With kids heading back to school and cold and flu season just around the corner, many people are worried about protecting their health and the health of their loved ones. And with the recent news surrounding the spread of the Swine Influenza Virus (H1N1), there is more cause for concern than ever before. An independent laboratory test has now proven the VIOlight toothbrush sanitizer to be effective in the virtual elimination of H1N1 virus from toothbrush bristles, and VIOlight toothbrush sanitizer products can help people protect themselves and their families from this new threat.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090908/NY71895 )

The lab report identifies VIOlight's ultraviolet (UV) germicidal light as the "active ingredient," or defense, in killing an impressive 99.99% of the swine flu virus. The swine flu virus application consisted of 0.2mL of a stock virus of the flu spiked onto the toothbrush bristles. After a mere 6 minutes of submersion in the VIOlight device, the toothbrush(es) were practically free of the virus.

"In addition to the current swine flu epidemic, knowing the many virus strains that are present in virtually all households, educational facilities, and public forums that we all frequent, and the increasing evidence of disease that is transmitted through the mouth, we must look at ways to reduce the opportunity for these viruses to enter our bodies via our toothbrushes," explained Joel Pinsky, President of VIOlight Inc.

VIOlight's germicidal ultraviolet technology has also proven to safely kill up to 99.99% percent of germs and bacteria on toothbrushes including E. coli, staph, and salmonella.

Most people simply rinse their toothbrush after each use and put it in a cup or holder, believing that they have removed germs and bacteria. This is not the case. As the Centers for Disease Control stated in their January 2002 report, "Even after being rinsed visibly clean, toothbrushes can remain contaminated with potentially pathogenic organisms." In addition, brushes kept in a common holder may cross-contaminate each other, spreading colds and flu among family members.

VIOlight products offer the same sanitizing power consumers expect at the dentist's office with chic, contemporary designs that look at home in any bathroom. After brushing, you simply place the toothbrush in the VIOlight unit and the UV technology goes to work. A variety of stylish units to suit any need are available, including the whimsical Zapi Toothbrush Sanitizer and the award winning VIOlight Toothbrush Sanitizer & Storage System designed by Philippe Starck. All VIOlight toothbrush sanitizers feature the same germicidal ultraviolet bulb. VIOlight products are available at popular retail outlets nationwide as well as at www.violight.com.

For additional information about VIOlight toothbrush sanitizers, for access to laboratory test results*, or to arrange an interview with a VIOlight executive, contact Aimee Majoros at 212.229.2934 or aimee@aimeepr.com.

*Results on file

About VIOlight Inc.

VIOlight Inc., based in Yonkers, New York, offers consumers a range a revolutionary toothbrush sanitizing products utilizing an ultraviolet (UV) bulb to eliminate germs and bacteria in toothbrushes. Laboratory tests show the technology eliminates up to 99.99% of toothbrush germs, safeguarding the whole family from harmful bacteria and cross-contamination. VIOlight was a Gold IDEA recipient of the Industrial Design Excellence Award in 2005, was listed as one of TIME Magazine's "Coolest Inventions of the Year" in 2004 and has been featured on television programs ranging from CNN to The Ellen DeGeneres Show. For more information please visit www.violight.com.

SOURCE VIOlight Inc.

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