The 2016 Rio Olympic Games could be plagued by the Zika virus.
The spreading of the mosquito-borne illness has raised serious concern over whether or not Brazil is the right location for the games. Here’s what you need to know about the controversy:
Expert Advice
Amir Attaran — a professor at the University of Ottawa who specializes in public health — has warned the International Olympic Committee (IOC) about the disease.
He has informed the organizers of the Rio Olympic Games that having the tournament in Brazil is a bad idea as the Zika virus may be prevalent in the South American country this summer.
The illness comes from mosquitoes but it can also be transmitted sexually, increasing the risk of fans and athletes getting sick.
IOC’s Plans
Despite the warning, the Rio Olympic Games organizers have revealed that the event will go through as planned in the Brazilian city.
IOC medical director Richard Budgett said the agency is monitoring the situation closely. Health professionals believe that perhaps the organization is not taking the health hazard seriously.
Zika-related symptoms are usually mild, but pregnant women who contract the illness are at a higher risk of having a child with an abnormality that causes the baby’s head to be much smaller.
What Athletes Think
The event’s participants are split between those who believe the games should be postponed or moved, and those who will go to the Olympics regardless of the conditions.
Golfer Adam Scott is missing the event due to the concerns raised by health authorities. Others such as soccer star Alex Morgan are worried about the presence of Zika in Brazil.
Meanwhile, Morgan’s teammate Hope Solo says she will be at the Olympics even if Zika continues to be prevalent in the country.
