Olympic Triathlete Claire Michel Reveals Virus Behind Illness After Seine River Swim

A Belgian triathlete, Claire Michel, clarified through Instagram that her illness was caused by a virus, not E. coli, as some had speculated due to conditions in the Seine River.

PARIS, France — Michel’s sudden illness led Belgium’s Olympic committee to withdraw its team from the mixed relay event at the Paris Olympics. Michel had earlier competed in the women’s triathlon, which included swimming in the Seine River.

The Games have seen fluctuating bacteria levels in the long-polluted Seine, causing swim tests to be canceled and the men’s triathlon delayed. Organizers stated that water quality tests on race days showed “very good” levels of E. coli and enterococci bacteria.

Paris organizers had assured that the river would be clean enough for swimming and did not set up a backup venue. Nonetheless, media outlets speculated that Michel was sickened by the E. coli bacteria. She clarified that her symptoms were due to a virus, detailing that several days of vomiting and diarrhea left her weakened.

In her Instagram post, Michel expressed gratitude for the support and lamented for her teammates who also missed the opportunity to compete. She received treatment at the Olympic village clinic and has been recovering since.

In conclusion, despite the speculations, it was confirmed that the illness was not linked to the water quality of the Seine River.