The organizers of the Milan-Cortina Olympics are facing challenges due to a norovirus outbreak, colloquially known as stomach flu, which originated from the Finnish women's ice hockey team. Thirteen members of the Finnish team have been affected, leading to the postponement of their opening match against Canada, originally scheduled for Thursday. The new date for this match is set for February 12, contingent upon the team being able to field at least 15 skaters and two goalkeepers from a roster of 23 on game day.

The highly contagious virus has not only impacted Finland but has also spread to Switzerland, where a player from their women's team has tested positive. Both this player and her teammates are currently in quarantine at their hotel and missed the opening ceremony on Friday evening as a precaution. Reports from the Finnish National Broadcasting Company indicate that players from the French and American women's ice hockey teams are also infected, heightening concerns about the potential for further outbreaks among athletes at the Olympics.

Given the nature of the virus's spread and its implications for the games, there are increasing worries about the effectiveness of health protocols in place to manage such outbreaks, especially as the event draws closer. The situation underscores the delicate balancing act organizers must perform to ensure the safety of all participants while still facilitating the event.