Fredriksson Raced The 50-K At Worlds With Chlamydia Pneumonia Bacteria

Two weeks ago Fredriksson had already claimed that something was seriously wrong with him. But nobody including the coaches, the Swedish doctor or journalists took Fredriksson’s worries seriously.

But last Thursday, the doctor decided to take Fredriksson to the hospital in Oberstdorf for some tests. The answers came on Saturday. Fredriksson had Chlamydia pneumonia bacteria in his system. These bacteria can develop the life threatening illness called twar.

Fredriksson was given antibiotics and after five days on medication was healthy enough to race both the relay and the 50-kilometer.

His performance in the 50-kilometer on the last day of Worlds was fantastic, knowing the circumstances the Swede raced under.