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Does the uvula cause persistent coughs and flu?

Some parents believe that the little fleshy hanging ball at the back of the throat, called the uvula, is responsible for persistent coughs, cold or flu; and so they take their children to traditional surgeons to remove the uvula, hoping the problem would go away. However, health experts strongly advise against this minor procedure, stating it could lead to complications and even death. The ±«Óătv's Saida Swaleh has been to the Island of Zanzibar where the practice is still rife to bring you this story. Warning: some of the images in this report may be disturbing.

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6 minutes