Fear of Covid-19 infection haunts Team Zim in Tokyo
TEAM Zimbabwe’s Olympic Games Chef de Mission Frederick Ndlovu says although he is satisfied with Covid-19 protocols in the host city of Tokyo in Japan, they are always living in fear of the disease.
Ndlovu arrived in Tokyo more than a week ago alongside two other members of Team Zimbabwe management.
He says so rigorous are the protocols that everyone is tested every day, while strict social distancing and other health procedures are being monitored.
“With Covid-19, you cannot be certain that you are safe. A lot is being done to ensure minimum to zero chances of infection. Teams are not supposed to interact and even as members of Team Zimbabwe we must make sure there is minimum contact as much as possible,” Ndlovu told Chronicle Sport from Tokyo.
He said so strict are the Japanese authorities that everyone coming for the games does not leave the airport unless certified Covid-19 free.
“Once one lands, you are subjected to tests and no one leaves the airport before results are out. If negative you then proceed to the Games Village, but if you are positive, you are taken to the isolation hotel.
“The reason we are having daily tests is to remove any chances of having the virus in the village. Remember the incubation period is between four to 14 days, so I may be negative upon arrival yet had contact with an infected person 24 hours before,” he said.
Ndlovu said the rowing pair of Peter Purcell-Gilpin and his coach James Alexander Stephenson were the first to arrive for the Games on July 16, while swimmers Donata Katai and Sofia Andrea arrived yesterday and golfer Scot Vincent is expected to arrive tomorrow. Sprinter Ngoni Makusha will be the last Zimbabwean athlete to arrive on Friday.
“Rowing requested to have an early camp here and we had to make a special application, which was successful,” said Ndlovu.
The opening ceremony will be held on Friday.