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Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
THE International Olympic Committee has intensified its Zika virus containment measures ahead of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in August.
The deadly virus has so far infected an estimated 1,5 million people in Brazil thereby threatening the staging of the biggest sporting showcase in the world.
WHO has since called for an emergency meeting on Monday to decide if Zika should be treated as a global emergency.
“The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is closely monitoring the situation about Zika in Brazil. We are also in close communication with the WHO and the Rio 2016 Organising Committee on this topic.
On its side, Rio 2016 is in regular contact with the Brazilian Ministry of Health and the Municipal Health Department, which are the responsible authorities on health issues in Brazil and in Rio. All parties are taking action to address this topic, and are following developments closely,” said the IOC in an emailed response to Chronicle Sport questions.
The IOC said Games venues would be inspected on a daily basis in order to ensure that any puddles of stagnant water are removed.
“A plan has already been put in place which will see Games venues being inspected on a daily basis in order to ensure that any puddles of stagnant water where the mosquitos breed, are removed. This will minimise the risk of athletes and visitors coming into contact with mosquitos. Rio 2016 will also continue to follow the virus prevention and control measures provided by the authorities, and will provide the relevant guidance to Games athletes and visitors,” said the IOC.
Zimbabwe will send 31 athletes to the Games, its largest delegation since the Moscow Olympics in 1980.
Online Reporter