Sir, – Prof William Reville writes about (Science, March 21st) the menace of the rising levels of tuberculosis. Pulmonary TB is transmitted by the inhalation of infected droplets and would certainly be enhanced by the disgusting habit of spitting. This seems to be a necessary adjunct to the playing of football, with either round or oval balls.
The custom of spitting on the pitch, committed by many of our sporting heroes, sets a very bad example to aspiring younger players, who appear to believe that the practice demonstrates their toughness, without realising that some of them could be spreading TB.
The football and rugby authorities should initiate a campaign to stamp out this revolting and dangerous practice. – Yours, etc,
DAVID SOWBY,
Knocksinna Crescent,
Dublin 18.