The International Olympic Committee (IOC), has sent out detailed health advisory to all the National Olympic Associations, based on the observations of the World Health Organisation (WHO), regarding the precautions to be taken during the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. With regard to the Zika virus, viewed as the major threat, it was mentioned that travellers should take personal protective measures to prevent mosquito bites.
‘’In accordance with WHO advice, these include the use of appropriate repellents and wearing of light-coloured loose fitting clothing. Repellents should contain either diethyltoulamide (DEET) 20% or more, IR 3535, or Picaridin, and may be applied to exposed skin or to clothing (but not under clothing) and have been shown to be effective and safe, although some individual may suffer skin sensitivity, especially if applied over zealously and under clothing’’, said the advisory, circulated by the Chef de Mission of the Indian contingent, Rakesh Gupta.
It was also mentioned that there would be comprehensive medical cover at all venues, described in detail in the Rio 2016 medical guide, and in case of illness the participants need to seek medical advice from health experts. All residents of the Athletes Village would be provided with 165 ml of Mosquito repellent, besides the provision of plug-in mosquito repellent in all rooms. The organising committee has also assured that all the rooms would be air-conditioned, ruling out the need to keep the windows open.
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