Olympic Triathlete Blames Seine River Swim for Viral Illness

A Belgian triathlete has cleared the air on her recent illness, stating it was not E. coli as some speculated due to the Seine River’s conditions.

PARIS, France — Claire Michel, who was supposed to compete in the mixed relay for Belgium at the Paris Olympics, revealed on Instagram that blood tests identified a virus as the source of her sickness.

Following Michel’s health issues, Belgium’s Olympic committee announced the withdrawal of its mixed relay team from Monday’s event. Michel had participated in the women’s triathlon days earlier, which included a swimming segment in the Seine River.

Concerns about the river’s bacteria levels, a long-known issue, resulted in canceling test swims before the triathlon events and delaying the men’s triathlon by a day. Despite these worries, organizers assured that the water quality on race day met “very good” standards for fecal bacteria E. coli and enterococci.

Paris organizers were confident in the river’s cleanliness for the Games, opting not to establish a backup venue. However, reports emerged suggesting Michel’s illness stemmed from E. coli contamination, with some stating she was hospitalized for several days.

On Tuesday, Michel took to Instagram to clarify the situation. She emphasized that the cause of her illness was not E. coli. Michel had been experiencing severe symptoms, such as vomiting and diarrhea, and sought medical help at the Olympic village clinic last Sunday.

Expressing her gratitude for the support, Michel sent heartfelt messages to her relay teammates, acknowledging the lost opportunity caused by her health condition.