As the excitement builds for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, concerns over the water quality in the Seine River continue to loom. Despite efforts to revitalize the river and make it suitable for swimming, recent incidents involving sickness among athletes have raised doubts about its safety.

Last month, Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo made headlines by taking a swim in the Seine River, claiming the water to be "exquisite" and "very, very good." With a staggering $1.5 billion spent on revitalizing the city's sewer system leading up to the Olympics, organizers were hopeful that the river would be swimmable in time for the games.

However, the recent announcement by Belgium's Olympic team has caused alarm. The team was forced to forfeit a triathlon competition after one of its athletes, Claire Michel, fell ill from swimming in the Seine last week. Michel was hospitalized and treated for an E. coli infection, highlighting the potential dangers of the river's water quality.

Switzerland's Olympic team also faced setbacks, as triathlete Adrien Briffod had to be replaced due to a gastrointestinal infection. Although it is uncertain whether the infection was related to the Seine's water quality, it raises further concerns.

Paris 2024 organizers have reiterated that the water quality during the triathlon events was deemed "very good." They assured that daily water quality tests are performed, and decisions on event proceedings are made based on the results and various criteria, including health considerations.

In response to the incidents, today's triathlon events will proceed as planned, despite the illnesses faced by Michel and Briffod. However, athletes remain understandably cautious about the conditions they face in the river.

Water quality in the Seine River is known to be susceptible to rapid changes, especially after heavy rainfall. CNN reported a spike in E. coli levels following a downpour in late June, emphasizing the unpredictability of the river's water conditions.

While Paris 2024 organizers strive to prioritize the health and well-being of athletes, the incidents raise questions about the long-term viability of hosting events in the Seine. Athletes such as men's gold medal winner Alex Yee acknowledged the risk of swimming in a river that may not meet optimal cleanliness standards.

As the countdown to the Paris 2024 Olympics continues, addressing the concerns surrounding the water quality in the Seine River remains a crucial aspect for organizers. Ensuring the health and safety of athletes should be top priority, prompting further examination and monitoring of the river's conditions in the lead-up to the games.