Office workers, perhaps fearful of their jobs and worried about their companies' futures, are playing office politics and gossiping more than they were five years ago, according to a poll earlier this year. In fact, 55 percent of those surveyed said politicking at work is on the rise.

"It's a reflection of what's happening economically," said Brett Good, district president for California and Arizona for Robert Half International Inc., a staffing company.

While more than half said they saw an increase in workplace manoeuvring, 54 percent said it was best to follow what was going on and be in the know, but not participate directly in office politics. And nearly a third said it was best to avoid any kind of gossip or alignments completely.

"I would find it challenging to be aware of the influencers and not be involved," said Good. But he said employees don't want to be perceived as active in the rumour mill or be accused of speculating about the health of their organisation, especially to someone who might betray their confidence to a superior.

Accountemps conducted the random survey of 522 US adult workers in January 2008.

FIGHT THE FLU: With flu season on the way, be forearmed against the chills, weariness and fever — and sickening everyone who lives and works with you.

An annual flu shot is the "best bet" for avoiding the illness, says the Mayo Clinic. The vaccine is usually available between September and mid-November, before the flu season's usual start in late fall or early winter. Building immunity after the shot takes up to two weeks, according to the clinic.

However, the vaccine does not completely ensure you won't get sick: the shot is between 70 to 90 percent effective in preventing the flu for healthy people under 65. Those who do still get the flu will probably get a less severe form of the sickness.

To avoid getting sick:

— Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitiser, especially before eating.

— Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

— Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing or coughing.