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Virus Causes Players To Withdraw From BNP Paribas Open

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A flu-like virus forced both ATP and WTA players to withdraw from the BNP Parbias Open.

The virus has caused a spike in visits to the emergency room in Coachella Valley. In a statement released Sunday, the Eisenhower Medical Center said they saw a 15 percent jump in visits from just last week.

The virus, which lasts between 24 to 48 hours, causes fever and vomiting, then diarrhea. It is spread through air or direct contact, not through food. Since the flu is short, "otherwise healthy people" who come down with it don't need to seek medical attention. The virus goes away on its own.

Some of those names include Gael Monfils, the tournament's No. 14 seed and American Vania King, according to USA Today. American Bethanie Mattek-Sands who is already out of the tournament said she also got sick. Andreas Seppi and Philipp Kohlschreiber also retired and withdrew from their matches Saturday.

Fans have even reported coming down with the virus.

From the Desert Sun:

Doctors recommended hand washing and using antibacterial cleansers to avoid the virus.

Those who show symptoms should drink as much fluid as possible, rest and avoid the sun.

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