The U.S. Olympic Committee will hire two infectious disease specialists to advise potential Olympians worried about the Zika outbreak in Brazil.

USOC CEO Scott Blackmun sent a letter Wednesday to all potential Olympians, acknowledging the growing concern over the virus and emphasizing that athletes' well-being in Rio de Janeiro this summer is the federation's highest priority.

The disease is spread by mosquitoes and can result in mild symptoms. It can also cause birth defects.

Hope Solo, goalkeeper for the U.S. women's soccer team, told Sports Illustrated earlier this week that the virus was a concern to her.

Blackmun told The Associated Press that Solo's comments made USOC officials realize the need to provide concise and accurate information.

The USOC's decision to hire the specialists was first reported by USA Today.