Australian Olympic athletes to be given condoms with antibacterial property ahead of Rio

AUSTRALIAN athletes are being given ‘special’ condoms ahead of the Olympics in Rio.

Multi-coloured condoms very nearly form the five-ring Olympic symbol.

FREE double-strength condoms will be given to all Australian Olympic athletes in Rio to combat the Zika virus.

The Australian Olympic Committee has stepped up its bid to combat the virus by signing a deal with leading Australian condom manufacturer Starpharma, providing access to more than 1500 condoms.

The AOC’s deal with Starpharma will supply the Rio team with “dual protection condoms” that feature an antiviral lubricant.

Australia’s Olympic Committee is issuing the condoms for “added protection” against Zika.

These are in addition the 450,000 regular condoms that will be available in dispensing machines in every block of the Olympic village.

The extra precautionary measure by the AOC has emerged in the wake of former IOC president Kevan Gosper claiming last week that all 134 members of the Australian Olympic team should be blood-tested for the virus following the games.

“The Zika virus can be passed onto the female in any sexual relationship for a period of up to six months,’’ he said.

“I recommend to the AOC that they look at blood testing, two weeks after the (athletes) come out of Brazil.’’

AOC medical director Dr David Hughes attempted to calm Mr Gosper’s concerns, saying: “If individuals take reasonable care as instructed, then I believe the risk to our team members will be ­minimal.’’

An AOC official told The Sunday Telegraph yesterday that the partnership with Starpharma was necessary for “added protection”.

German authorities said yesterday that the country had recorded its first case of sexual transmission of the Zika virus.

Originally published as Australian Olympic athletes to be given condoms with antibacterial property ahead of Rio