Grand Canyon Rafting Visitors Report Stomach Virus - WebMD

June 30, 2022 -- At least eight Grand Canyon rafting trips this spring were affected by norovirus, with more than 150 campers reporting symptoms of the gastrointestinal illness, according to the National Park Service.

The reported symptoms include nausea, stomach cramping and pain, vomiting and diarrhea.

Norovirus spreads easily through food and drink; touching a contaminated surface and then touching your nose, mouth or eyes; or sharing drinks and utensils with someone infected. Officials have not determined the cause of this outbreak.

Norovirus is thought to be the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis (diarrhea and vomiting illness) in the world.

John Dillon is the executive director of the Grand Canyon River Outfitters Association, which represents rafting companies that take tourists on guided trips in the park. Those trips usually number about 650 and include just a case or two of norovirus, he told The Washington Post.

Officials say they took "comprehensive control measures" since the incidents in April and May. Since then, they have seen a "marked decrease" in reports of the illness.

People sometimes incorrectly call norovirus "the stomach flu" because it inflames the stomach and intestines. Symptoms can start 12 to 48 hours after exposure.

Antibiotics don't help, but the disease usually goes away on its on in one to three days in healthy people.

"On rafts and in camps, norovirus can spread quickly," the National Park Service said. "The best way to prevent norovirus is to practice proper hand washing and general cleanliness and ensure the safety of your drinking water."

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