As a result of the dangerous Zika virus, Brazil must not be allowed to hold the Olympics this summer. We need your help to make this happen!

This puts 500,000 international tourists in danger of contracting a virus that currently has no cure. Sending disease ridden visitors back to their home countries could spread the virus even more.

As you know, the economic and political situation in Brazil is dire. The economy is in the midst of a recession, and President Dilma has been temporarily removed from office while she waits for her impeachment trial. While she is gone, her health minister has been replaced and public spending on health has been reduced by 30%.

The Zika virus is spread through infected Aedes mosquitoes. Its symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. However, pregnant women who have the disease will have children with serious birth defects. Failure to postpone the 2016 Olympics could add to the 26,000 suspected cases that are already in Rio. Any visitor who travels back to their country could unknowingly have the disease and start spreading the virus. Soon, this could become a worldwide epidemic.

Although athletes and coaches have been extensively preparing for this event, it is not worth the risk of getting sick. The Olympics must be postponed for the safety of the attendees as well as the rest of the world.

By signing this petition, you are agreeing to the fact that the dangers of the Zika virus are too tremendous to be able to carry on with the 2016 Olympics in Rio, Brazil this coming summer. The event MUST be postponed until it is safe to happen.