Bjoergen likely off team

Norwegian team doctor Hans Petter Stokke told Reuters that he had advised the World Cup leader not to race but was hopeful she would shrug off the virus in time for her next event, the women's 10-km classical on Thursday.

"I have given the coach the advice that due to her medical history I would not advise her to go on the race," Stokke said on Sunday. "Marit and I have spoken together and Marit agreed with me."

Norway are one of the favourites for gold in Tuesday's sprint.

"We look forward to Thursday," Stokke added. "She has an infection which is not very severe so we are optimistic that she will recover, perhaps tomorrow, perhaps in two days."

Stokke said Bjoergen had been isolated from the rest of the Norway team.

"She is not allowed to have anything to do with the other athletes, not eating, not playing cards or watching television," he said.