Paris Olympics: Games Wide Open Amid COVID-19 Concerns

The Paris Olympics, widely anticipated as the post-COVID Games, have permitted participants to compete despite testing positive for the virus. Unlike the strict measures of previous Olympics in Tokyo and Beijing, Paris 2024 only offers health recommendations. This has led to a more relaxed atmosphere, reminiscent of pre-pandemic times.

Many believed that the Paris Olympics would symbolize the end of the COVID-19 era. Instead, they've become known as the "who cares about COVID" Games.

Noah Lyles clinched a bronze despite having the virus, performing in front of thousands of spectators. Numerous athletes have tested positive, but organizers have merely issued health recommendations with no mandatory restrictions, allowing athletes to participate if they are willing and able.

This approach contrasts sharply with the intense COVID-19 protocols seen during the Tokyo 2021 and Beijing 2022 Olympics, which included no audience attendance and strict isolation measures. In Paris, the atmosphere is a throwback to pre-pandemic days, with minimal mask usage and no vaccine or test proof required for entry.

(With inputs from agencies.)