1,200 Olympic security guards sidelined due to norovirus outbreak
There’s no way to dress it up: There is a norovirus outbreak in Pyeongchang. At least 41 security guards were struck by illness, and because it’s so contagious, Olympic organizers sent home 1,200 staffers as a precaution because everyone was worried about the spread. Instead, military personnel will take their place while guards undergo testing, Reuters is reporting.
“The military personnel ... will be responsible for security checks of the 20 venues as they take up jobs such as security searches, previously done by civilian safety personnel, until the patients’ condition is normalized,” the Pyeongchang Olympic committee said in a statement.
Officials are examining food and water sources at a mountainside facility in Pyeongchang where the guards had been staying and also inspecting 18 other facilities that rely on groundwater.
As you probably know, norovirus is, uh, not fun. WebMD says: “The highly contagious norovirus can tear through cruise ships, classrooms, and other crowded spaces, leaving vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps in its wake.” Tear! There was a horrific outbreak at track worlds last year in London, which sidelined a few athletes when the virus took over a hotel.
If you’re in Pyeongchang now, don’t fear. Organizing committee head Lee Hee-beom says they have a plan.
“Our disease control centre other related government agencies here are now discussing countermeasures and will come up with proper measures and will be announced soon.”
Postmedia Wire Services