Vasco Vilaça and Melanie Santos: Affected by the Seine
The Portuguese Basque Vilaça, one of the best triathletes in the world, and his compatriot Melanie Santos They have been victims of gastrointestinal infections after participating in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
These incidents have once again put the water quality of the Seine River, which had already been the subject of controversy before the Games, in the spotlight.
The Portuguese Olympic Committee has issued a release confirming that Basque Vilaça experienced symptoms consistent with a gastrointestinal infection during his time at the Olympic Games.
According to the statement, “Vilaça's clinical condition is stable and the health team is taking all measures to monitor and provide conservative treatment to the athlete in the Olympic Village.”
Melanie Santos, Vilaça's teammate, also suffered the effects of the contaminated water of the Seine. Although her condition is less acute, she developed symptoms similar to those of her colleague.
The International Triathlon Federation (World Triathlon) has ensured that the quality of the water was evaluated during the competition days and that it complied with the defined regulations.
However, some parameters evaluated suggest a risk of infection. Despite delays and possible cancellations, the swimming events took place, with notable consequences for some athletes.
