The Paris Olympics marathon swimming competitions is fast approaching and concerns about a disease linked to the city’s rat population have been addressed with a series of proactive measures.

The River Seine, set to host marathon swimming and triathlon events, has been under scrutiny due to the potential risk of leptospirosis, a disease transmitted through contact with water contaminated by rat urine.

Leptospirosis, caused by the Leptospira bacteria, can lead to flu-like symptoms, and in severe cases, it may cause liver and kidney damage.