By Razeen Gutta
Athletes have been forced into wearing masks after several positive Covid tests at the Olympic Games.
Three years on from the heavily affected Tokyo Games, the virus has once again had an impact on the showpiece event.
Amid the global pandemic, the 2021 edition was held with strict precautions and no fans in attendance. This time, however, there is no requirement for athletes to withdraw from the Games in cases of Covid.
The ruling means that nations can implement their own policies with staff and athletes; and Team USA and Great Britain have already commented on what some of those precautions are like.
Team USA swimmers David Johnston and Luke Whitlock have tested positive for the virus, with Swimswam reporting that they have been moved from the Olympic Village to a hotel.
“We do not share athlete health information with the public. We do not have mandatory masking or testing in place. We encourage our athletes to do whatever makes them most comfortable, working with the team doctors,” a Team USA spokesperson said, per The Guardian.
British swimmer Jacob Whittle commented on how mask wearing had become common again.
“We’re just getting more strict with the precautions. Hand sanitising, wearing masks everywhere we can. It’s when we’re swimming and doing stuff like this [talking to the media], that’s the only time we’re not wearing a mask,” he told The Guardian.
“It’s just being extra cautious when eating and going on buses and in communal spaces. Just being really cautious as to not catch it but also if you’ve got it not to give it to anybody else, so it’s just being careful really.”
Pictured above: Athletes have been wearing masks at the Paris Games.
Source: @luckytran
