We are taking steps to address Zika virus risk: IOA

New Delhi, June 29

Many top athletes around the globe might be pulling out of the Rio Olympics due to Zika virus concern but chef de mission of the Indian Olympic contingent Rakesh Gupta on Wednesday said they are taking every possible step to address any possible risk.

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“We are concerned about Zika virus but we are taking every possible precaution for the Indian contingent that will travel to Rio. Whatever advisory we have received from the international body we have forwarded that to the players and federations,” Gupta said on the sidelines of an event where Amul became the official sponsor of the Indian contingent.

“We will also provide repellents to the athletes so that they can use them in Brazil. Also we are providing full sleeves T-shirts to the players. None of the athletes have raised any concern so far and I am also hopeful by the time the Olympics gets underway, things will be better.”      World number one golfer Jason Day has become the latest to join the growing number of international athletes who have withdrawn from the Games in August because of Zika virus concerns.

Top golfers Adam Scott, Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel, Graeme McDowell, Vijay Singh and Rory McIlroy—all have declared their absence from the Games.

Among others, American cyclist Tejay van Garderen and Basketball star Stephen Curry have also withdrawn from the Games but there are many others who have raised concerns over Zika virus.

Talking about India’s preparation for the Games, Gupta said he was hopeful that the country will win more than 10 medals at the Rio Olympics. — PTI