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Olympics reports over 40 Covid cases amid global surge: WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported on Tuesday that over 40 athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics have tested positive for Covid-19, reflecting a global increase in cases. The WHO emphasized that the virus remains prevalent and countries must enhance their response measures.
Notable athletes affected include British swimmer Adam Peaty, who tested positive a day after winning silver in the 100m breaststroke, and Australian Lani Pallister, who withdrew from the women’s 1500m freestyle due to illness.
Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s director of epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention, noted that SARS-CoV-2 positive test rates have been rising globally for weeks, with wastewater surveillance indicating that actual case numbers could be significantly higher than reported.
Van Kerkhove highlighted that the high virus circulation is unusual for respiratory viruses, which typically surge in colder months. Despite the season, many countries, including the Olympic venue, are experiencing increased Covid-19 cases. She noted that such infections among athletes are expected given the widespread transmission.