DHAKA: The World Health Organization (WHO) says there is a "very low risk" of Zika virus spreading globally as a result of holding the Olympics in Brazil.

There is no need to move the Olympics from Rio de Janeiro, or to postpone or cancel them, WHO experts said.

The WHO reaffirmed earlier advice against imposing any travel or trade restrictions on areas affected by the virus, which is spread by mosquitoes. Zika has been linked to birth defects, reports the BBC.

However, the Olympics will be held in August.

The WHO has already declared Zika a global public health emergency. It has advised pregnant women to avoid traveling to the Games, and visitors to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

But despite the concern voiced by some scientists, the WHO said mosquito activity was relatively low in Brazil in August.

Brazilian officials expect about 380,000 foreign visitors to come for the Rio Olympics.

BDST: 1038 HRS, JUN 15, 2016
BD