Athletes to get double-strength condoms to combat Zika virus

It will give athletes access to more than 1,500 free sheaths, which have "dual-protection" qualities that feature antiviral lubricants.

There will be a further 450,000 regular condoms available in dispensing machines in every block of the Olympic village in Rio.

The measure comes after calls last week that all 134 members of the Australian Olympic team should be blood-tested for Zika after the games.

Kevan Gosper, former president of the International Olympic Committee, said: "The Zika virus can be passed onto the female in any sexual relationship for a period of up to six months.

"I recommend to the AOC that they look at blood testing, two weeks after the (athletes) come out of Brazil.’’

But Dr David Hughes, AOC medical director, said: "If individuals take reasonable care as instructed, then I believe the risk to our team members will be ­minimal."

It comes as Daily Star Online recently warned the horrid Zika virus is hitting popular holiday resorts in Spain, Portugal and Greece.

(The Daily Star)