Spitting, like smoking, is a common practice which is blamed for some dangerous diseases. People spit on the streets for many reasons, not just because they need to; but eventually this sickening habit can make people's life infectious. It is one of the most unhygienic human habits that spread airborne diseases like tuberculosis (TB). And it has been found by researchers that TB bacteria stay alive in the patient's spit for a long time. Apart from TB, the most common harmful bacteria in a sputum culture are those that can cause bronchitis or pneumonia.

Recently, experts in London have warned that a re-emergence of spitting on the street, which was discouraged during the 1880s, could be contributing to the spread of TB. But in countries like Bangladesh, India and China, which have high rates of tuberculosis, spitting is a dangerous problem. Even people spit sometimes without any reason, not even for clearing the throat and getting rid of excess saliva. According to public health experts, TB can be spread when a person with infected lungs coughs, spits and hawks up phlegm from the throat creating droplet suspension in the air which can be breathed in by other persons, leading them to acquire the infection.

Our citizens should start to follow a hygienic practise regarding spitting here and there. Sometimes during our unavoidable need we should try our best to cover our mouth while coughing and not spitting openly in public. Like anti-smoking campaign, an anti-spitting movement will be a benefit for preventing many diseases.