RIO DE JANEIRO- The World Health Organization (WHO) has rejected a letter to have the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics postponed due to the Zika virus.
USA Today says the letter sent by a group of 150 doctors and scientists brings up concerns over the spread of the virus and the health risks associated with it.
Many people believe hosting the games in an area with this virus is unethical and could greatly impact the health conditions of the athletes, spectators, and journalists says the BBC.
Global News stated that WHO said “based on current assessment, cancelling or changing the location of the 2016 Olympics will not significantly alter the international spread of Zika virus.”
The International Olympic Committee also says they will not postpone or move the games due to the virus.
However, both WHO and the International Olympic Committee are warning people to not attend the games if they are high risk.
Story Choice
I chose to write this story because this is a virus that is quickly spreading and affecting the entire world which makes it very relevant. It would make sense to move the Olympic games because of the severity of Zika and the potential of it spreading. That fact alone makes this story controversial because of the notion to keep the games where they are despite the risk of the health and safety of spectators and athletes.