Pau Gasol considering skipping Olympics due to Zika virus fears

Pau Gasol is considering skipping the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro over fears about the Zika virus.

The virus, which is transmitted by mosquitoes and has been linked to birth defects and potential neurological issues in adults, has become a major issue in Brazil. Gasol thinks that the athletes set to compete in the Olympics have not been properly briefed on the impacts, dangers, and risks associated with making the trip.

“It wouldn’t surprise me to see some athletes deciding not to participate in the games to avoid putting their health and the health of their families at risk,” Gasol said Monday, via Tales Azzoni of the Associated Press. “I’m thinking about (whether or not to go). Just like every athlete, or any other person considering going to Rio, should be thinking about it.”

Gasol noted that 150 health experts had called for the Rio Olympics to be relocated or postponed, and shared his belief that the authorities have not given adequate information to those who plan on going.

“I hope the national Olympic committees and the health organizations can be as clear as possible about the risks in Brazil so athletes can decide whether or not to take risks,” he said. “I don’t think we’ve been told enough about it.”

Both of Gasol’s parents were in medicine and Gasol himself wanted to be a doctor growing up, so it comes as no surprise that he’d be right on top of this. As he noted, many players have families and are considering having children, and Zika would come as a major concern to them. One other prominent athlete has pledged to play in Rio while also voicing concerns about the IOC’s handling of the situation.