Zika virus becomes a new concern for Rio 2016 Olympic Games


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SALT LAKE CITY — It seems like there are big concerns before almost every Olympics.

In Sochi for the 2014 Winter Olympics, it was terrorism. In Beijing for the 2008 Summer Olympics, it was air pollution. In Salt Lake City for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, just after 9/11, it was security.

But those are all man-made issues. The biggest concern in Brazil right now … isn't.

Olympic organizers of the 2016 Summer Olympic Games want the public to think of the beautiful sites and wonders of Rio de Janeiro, as well as the great storylines forthcoming, like Michael Phelps participating in his fourth Olympics.

But lately, the storyline coming out of Brazil has been the fight against the Zika virus.

"The point is making sure that we win the battle against the mosquito," Rio 2016 communications director Mario Andrada told the media last week.

The head of Rio's Olympic organizing committee says they are concerned about the virus. But so far, there are no travel restrictions and no plans to postpone the Games.

"So far, we are not so afraid in terms of not advising the people to come to Rio during the games," said Dr. Joao Grangeiro, Rio 2016 head doctor.

There also have been concerns about polluted water in Rio. Last summer, a German sailor was treated for flesh-eating bacteria shortly after sailing in an Olympic test event. Polluted water hasn't been the only issue. Protesters have marched outside the Olympic Park in Rio, demanding a stop to people being evicted from shantytowns to make room for the games.

But now, Zika is getting the most attention.

"Well, what we hear on the news in Europe, it scares you," said Peter Vidal, a tourist visiting Brazil. "But it doesn't stop people from coming here."

The Brazilian government is recommending women who are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant to stay away for now because birth defects have been linked to the Zika virus.

Brazil's health minister said about a quarter-million troops will be used to help kill the mosquitoes carrying the virus.

Last Friday marked exactly six months until Opening Ceremonies of the Summer Olympics in Rio. Organizers still have a lot of work to do to get ready. Now, organizers have another concern — one they weren't thinking about just a few months ago.

And the concern is only getting bigger.

Contributing: Xoel Cardenas

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