London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

The authors of a study published in the online journal Public Library of Science ONE which found that blowing the instruments propelled large numbers of droplets into the atmosphere have informed London 2012 Olympics organisers about their findings.

The study - led by Dr Ruth McNerney at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine - showed that vuvuzelas used at sporting events have the capacity to propel extremely large numbers of tiny droplets called aerosols into the atmosphere.

Further investigation is required to assess the potential of the vuvuzela to contribute to the spread of aerosol borne diseases such as measles, flu and tuberculosis. But the scientists recommend, as a precautionary measure, that people with respiratory infections should be advised not to blow their vuvuzela in enclosed spaces and where there is a risk of infecting others.

Vuvuzelas gained international fame during last summer's football World Cup in South Africa, where the horns are an integral part of the spectator experience.
Dr McNerney said: "The findings from this study have implications for the use of vuvuzelas at large sporting events and we are making the organisers of the Olympic Games aware or our study.

"A 'vuvuzela blowing etiquette' is needed. Just as with coughs and sneezes action should be taken to prevent disease transmission and people with infections must be advised against blowing their vuvuzelas close to other people."

• Lai K-M, Bottomley C, McNerney R, 2011 Propagation of Respiratory Aerosols by the Vuvuzela. PLoS ONE 6(5): e20086. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0020086