20.06.2012

Water Polo Australia Limited can confirm that Melissa Rippon and Nicola Zagame, both members of the women’s water polo team, have been diagnosed with Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough. 

The team, currently in camp at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), is working closely with medical professionals at the facility. 

All members and officials of the team have been tested and those that have returned a positive diagnosis have been placed in appropriate isolation to mitigate the risk of infection for athletes, staff and the public.

Water Polo Australia is taking this very seriously and will continue to work closely with AIS health professionals to provide the best care for those players diagnosed and to reduce any potential further risk.

Both Rippon and Zagame were last week selected to represent Australia at the London Olympic Games and their participation is not in doubt.

Both are expected to return to full training by next week.

Further information on Pertussis can be found at www.health.act.gov.au and we advise anyone displaying symptoms to seek medical advice.

Media opportunity:

Where: Outside AIS Visitor Centre

When: 3pm, Wednesday 20 June 2012

Who: Aussie Stingers captain Kate Gynther, AIS Director Matt Favier, AIS Dr Kieran Fallon