In a document published by the IOC Athletes' Commission, the British doctor listed a series of recommendations to athletes to prevent the spread of the virus, which has so far killed 2,933 people and infected more than 85,000 worldwide.

Budgett claimed the IOC "is working with National Federations and National Health Associations to ensure that you remain well informed and updated on any of the developments related to the spread of coronavirus, and most importantly that you are safe during this crucial period".

The IOC official said it was "vital" athletes adhered to the advice of the WHO on the virus, officially known as COVID-19.

It includes avoiding close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections and frequent hand washing.

Dozens of events, including World Championships and Olympic qualifiers, have been postponed, cancelled or relocated because of the virus.

The IOC and Tokyo 2020 have insisted the outbreak will not force this year's Olympics and Paralympics to be postponed or cancelled.

IOC doyen Richard Pound said earlier this week that the organisation had until the end of May to make a decision on the Games, should one be required.

Tokyo 2020 and Government officials have repeatedly claimed the Games will go ahead as scheduled despite the outbreak of the virus.

Five-time Olympic swimming champion Ian Thorpe has admitted he would be concerned about competing at the Olympics, which open on July 24.

"What we need to know is to use some of the best expert disease specialists to find out what is the risk to the team," Thorpe said.

"What is the risk to the other nations and how can we have an Olympic Games, one that is safe, that doesn’t put athletes at risk?

"What you have to understand as well is there are other risks associated with an Olympic Games, the threat of a terrorist event taking place... And we [athletes] take into consideration those things before we decide to compete.

"I think the decision should come down to each individual athlete. 

"But whether or not they want to compete, they should take their health into consideration first."