With three weeks remaining until the Paris Olympics, organizers face concerns about the River Seine’s safety for open-water swimming events.
Contingency plans are in place due to ongoing water quality issues.
Recent tests from Eau de Paris show hopeful signs. Pollution levels in the Seine have improved over the past week. From June 24 to July 2, E.coli and enterococci concentrations were below legal thresholds six out of nine days.
Despite high flow rates, water quality improved, meeting European standards for six days. A week prior, tests showed enterococci levels double the legal limit and E.coli almost four times higher.
High pollution levels may force Paris organizers to consider Plan B.
Marc Habash, an environmental sciences professor at the University of Guelph, emphasized health risks to athletes if water remains unsafe.
“If E.coli and enterococci levels suggest poor water quality, they must decide on the event’s viability,” Habash said. “Unsafe water means no swimming.”
The Games start on July 26, featuring over 10,000 athletes in the opening ceremony on the Seine. Marathon swimming events are set for August 8-9, and the triathlon for July 30, 31, and August 5.
On Friday, organizers informed Reuters of alternative plans.
They may change venues for marathon swimming or remove the swimming leg from the triathlon.
World Triathlon rules allow the competition to switch to a duathlon format as a last resort. A spokesperson mentioned fallback plans using the Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium, already equipped for rowing and canoeing.
Events might be postponed if the Seine remains unsafe, organizers told the Associated Press. Paris 2024 did not respond to Global News about the safety of the Seine and backup plans by publication time.
Habash noted the common practice of testing water quality before competitions to ensure swimmer safety. The Canadian Olympic Committee stated its medical team is in regular contact with World Aquatics and Paris 2024, prioritizing Team Canada’s health.
“We believe the events can be safely held in the Seine,” the COC said via email.
Paris has worked on cleaning the Seine for swimming since the 1900 Olympics. However, a sewer problem last summer canceled a pre-Olympics event. Water pollution levels vary with rainfall and temperature, affecting the Games’ outlook.
Recent heavy rain, unusual for this season, raised E.coli and enterococci levels.
“If rain decreases before the Olympics, pollution levels should drop,” Habash noted. The uncertainty lies in future weather conditions.
E.coli and enterococcus indicate water quality and possible sewage contamination. Ted Steiner, an infectious disease physician, explained that E.coli in water suggests other harmful pathogens may be present.
Swimmers risk ingesting contaminated water, potentially causing gastrointestinal issues. “Swallowing contaminated water can lead to stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea,” Habash said. Infections in the ears and respiratory tract are also possible.
Skin infections are rare but can occur with significant cuts or abrasions. People with weak immune systems face higher risks from contaminated water. Infections usually resolve on their own or with medication.
“Young, healthy athletes typically recover within a week,” Steiner added.
As the Paris Olympics approach, organizers remain vigilant about the Seine’s water quality. They prepare for all eventualities, ensuring athlete safety remains paramount.