World Cup horns could spread influenza

Have you watched a World Cup game yet? If so, we expect that you will have noticed the vuvuzelas. These noisy horns are responsible for the loud droning noise that has accompanied each match so far. While they might be traditional, and fun for the crowd, some doctors are warning that they could be responsible for the spread of influenza during the tournament.

“If someone with a chest or throat infection uses the vuvuzela in a crowded place then they could spread their infection to people around them,” said Doctor Ruth McNerney, from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

Doctor McNerney’s warning is backed up by the findings of a researchers from the school. The specialists discovered that when the vuvuzela is blown, a very high volume of air passes through. If the person blowing on the horn is sick with influenza, thousands of droplets of the illness could be passed into the air.

Are doctors being overanxious?

Are these concerns just killjoy claims from over-anxious clinicians? Or should we genuinely be concerned about the spread of influenza during the World Cup? Bearing in mind that millions of international visitors will be flocking to South Africa during the tournament, and that they will be mingling together in confined spaces such as stadiums and bars, doctors believe that we should not rule out the possibility of illnesses being spread around.

They advise that people can avoid picking up an illness by washing their hands regularly with soap. If they attend a game and are feeling ill, they should avoid blowing on vuvuzelas. For people who develop influenza, Tamiflu can give effective relief.

Noise issues

Television operators have receiving thousands of complaints about the noise of vuvuzelas. The sound has caused so much irritation that some fans are calling for them to be banned. On the other hand, South Africans insist that the noise is a traditional part of the authentic South African football experience. They argue that it adds atmosphere and excitement to the game.

The blast of vuvuzelas may be difficult for some people to deal with. Still, the latest statements from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine suggest that we should be more concerned with the health implications of these horns than with their sound.