According to news reports, Belgian triathlete Claire Michel required "more intensive medical care" after contracting a bacterial disease following her participation in the Olympic Games in Paris.
The 35-year-old athlete experienced severe symptoms, including three days of vomiting and diarrhea, shortly after the competition.
The event took place in the Seine River—a site that has faced heavy criticism for its water quality.
Michel shared on social media that blood tests revealed she had contracted a virus, though it was not an Escherichia coli (E. coli) infection.
After three days of worsening symptoms, she needed treatment at the polyclinic in the Olympic Village on Sunday.
Michel is now recovering and has returned to Belgium.
Due to Michel's illness, the Belgian team decided to withdraw from the mixed competition scheduled for Monday.
Michel had finished 38th in the women's singles the previous week.
Her illness, reportedly caused by a bacterial infection, has brought renewed attention to the water quality in the Seine, where the swimming portion of the triathlon took place. The poor condition of the river has already led to training cancellations and remains a concern for the Paris Games.
In her Instagram message, Michel thanked the polyclinic staff and the Belgian Olympic medical team for their care.
