PH Olympian Mary Joy Tabal takes Zika prevention measures

MANILA, Philippines – Despite fears of the Zika virus at the 2016 Rio Olympics, Filipina Olympian Mary Joy Tabal is still set to compete and has come up with measures to better protect herself in Brazil.

The Zika Virus, which can cause severe neurological birth defects and fear of immediate risk to unborn children, is transmitted through mosquito bites. As a preventive measure, Tabal’s camp has come up with a solution: mosquito-repellant lotion and mosquito net. (FAST FACTS: Zika virus)

“I am concerned about it, really. And I don’t want to get infected and I really want to compete for the country so this is the best solution that I could think of,” said Tabal, who’s currently in Japan for the final stage of her training ahead of the Olympics, in a press release.

Fear of the Zika virus has been a major hurdle ahead of the Olympics. Some athletes, including Spain’s Pau Gasol, have considered freezing their sperm over concerns, while a number of golfers, including Filipino Angelo Que, have already begged off.

Tabal’s women’s marathon competition will take place on August 14. The Rio Olympics open on August 5. The Filipina athlete is set to fly to Rio straight from Japan, without a visit to the Philippines in between.

Because of this, Tabal is set to miss the send-off party that will be thrown by the Philippine Sports Commission for the 11 Philippine Olympics, as mandated by President Rodrigo Duterte at the Malacañang on July 18.

Tabal’s flight schedule will also cost her to attend the send-off party hosted by Patafa patron James Lafferty. – Rappler.com