Doctors caution on vuvuzela use

Jun 25, 2010 |

JOHANNESBURG

Vuvuzelas aren’t just loud but they can spread germs too, a South African clinic warned on Thursday, urging fans to keep their lips on their own horns to avoid catching colds.
“A fan instrument such as the much-loved vuvuzela can unfortunately blow spittle and germs from infected individuals on to other healthy people in crowded areas and may be a health risk for infectious illnesses such as flu,” said Netcare Travel Clinics doctor Pete Vincent.
He also warned that sharing vuvuzelas can spread germs, while blowing too hard can damage the throat — after a woman in Cape Town ruptured her throat during a trumpet-blowing competition.

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