The International Paralympic Committee has issued new guidelines for anti-doping testing ©Getty Images

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has issued new guidelines for anti-doping testing following updated guidance from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). 

The IPC's anti-doping testing programme has been adjusted to ensure it is in line with the World Health Organization and WADA, but still protects the health and well-being of Para-athletes. 

New measures have also been put in place to protect the health of the sample collection personnel.

The IPC recommends that all sample collection personnel wear gloves and face masks during the sample collection process, until further notice.

As per IPC Anti-Doping Code Article 20.5.2., testing can happen at any time or place during the ongoing pandemic and athletes must always be available for testing.

Athletes should also be aware that the IPC Code Article 2.3 regarding sample collection will continue to apply.

The IPC issued new anti-doping testing guidelines after WADA updated their guidance ©Getty Images
The IPC issued new anti-doping testing guidelines after WADA updated their guidance ©Getty Images

In addition, sample collection personnel may request more information from athletes during the sample collection process and athletes should respond with complete transparency.

Athletes listed in the registered testing pool have been advised to inform the IPC if they or anyone in their close contact have been diagnosed with coronavirus or are experiencing any symptoms.

Earlier this month, WADA updated its guidance for Anti-Doping Organisations as several aim to restart or return to normal doping control programmes in their countries.

The IPC are subsequently set to closely monitor the different coronavirus procedures from sample collection agencies and review them regularly to ensure that all the measures are enforced in accordance with WADA guidelines.