Consider the microbiota: the community of microorganisms—bacteria, yeasts, fungi, and more—that inhabit specific environments. Just as each person has a unique gut microbiome akin to their DNA, workplaces develop their own microbial identities. A study by researchers at Northern Arizona University, reported on Slate.fr, analyzed samples from nine offices across three cities. The results? Each office boasts a distinct microbial signature.
Microbial communities were similar within offices but varied between them, with 25-30% of the microbes originating from the humans who occupy them. Spending 40 hours a week in the office means you're inhaling and absorbing bacteria from colleagues for about 25% of your life. While this may sound unappealing, it's a universal phenomenon in offices worldwide.
