Health Concerns Arise for Olympic Triathletes After River Seine Swims

In recent days, several Olympic triathletes who swam in the River Seine have fallen ill, raising concerns about water quality during the Paris 2024 Games. Here’s what we know so far:

1. Illness Reports:

   • Team Belgium withdrew from the mixed relay triathlon after one of its athletes fell sick. Switzerland also faced gastrointestinal infections affecting two of its athletes.
   • A female triathlete from Sweden and a male triathlete from Norway also reported illness after competing in their individual events in the Seine.
   • Swiss triathlete Adrien Briffod and his replacement, Simon Westermann, both suffered from stomach infections despite swimming in the Seine.

2. Water Quality Concerns:

   • The Seine’s water quality has been a persistent issue leading up to the Games.
   • Organizers conduct daily water quality tests, and decisions on event proceedings are made based on these results and other health criteria.
   • Bacteria levels previously forced the postponement of the men’s triathlon by one day.
   • Despite concerns, over 100 triathletes participated in the Seine swims last week.

3. Recent Developments:

   • A test run for the marathon swimming course in the Seine was canceled due to water quality concerns.
   • World Triathlon data showed acceptable levels of fecal bacteria E. coli and enterococci during the mixed relay event.
   • Athletes continue to compete in the Seine, but vigilance remains regarding their health and well-being.

In summary, while the exact cause of the illnesses remains unclear, the health of athletes remains a top priority. Paris 2024 organizers and World Triathlon are closely monitoring water quality to ensure safe competition during these Olympic Games.