NEW ZEALAND OLYMPIC COMMITTEE UPDATE: ZIKA VIRUS
The Zika virus is particularly worrying for expectant mothers throughout Brazil and other nations where prevalence of the Zika virus has been found to be increasing.
The New Zealand Olympic Committee will be providing the New Zealand governments advice to team members at this stage this advice is that expectant mothers or those planning pregnancy do not travel to areas with the zika virus present.
We would support any athlete or support staff member in their decision to not attend the games if this were the case.
We are also working with our medical team on preventative strategies to avoid bites insect repellent, mosquito nets and the like.
Information regarding the virus is developing rapidly. We are meeting with long list athletes and officials at Rio workshops which take place throughout February and March. Here we will provide them with appropriate advice. We will also provide regular briefings with updated advice in the build-up to and during the Olympic Games.
We know the Rio Organising Committee is examining ways to reduce risk, for example removing standing water where mosquitos breed at Olympic venues.