Embratur, the Brazilian tourism board, said that following guidance from the World Health Organisation (WHO) it saw “no reason” to change its plans for hosting the sporting events, due to take place later this year.
Embratur said that in accordance with a speech made by the WHO on May 28, “delaying the Games does not alter the spread of the virus, which is already circulating in 60 countries and territories. Therefore, there is no reason to change the Games in Rio.”
The body emphasised that the games would take place with “utmost attention given to the health of the participants and spectators of the biggest sporting event in the world” and that it was “in constant contact” with the WHO and the Pan American Health Organization working to tackle the disease.
Embratur also cited Brazil’s hosting of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, during which medical research recorded only three visiting football fans out of a possible 700,000 contracting Dengue fever - transmitted via the same mosquito that spreads Zika.
It has estimated between 300,000 to half a million international visitors for the Olympics.
Spectators making their way to Rio to cheer on Team GB are instructed to use mosquito repellents; keep doors and windows closed or screened and to wear trousers and long sleeved shirts.
Pregnant women are advised against travelling to Zika-affected areas.
