Norovirus outbreak sickens hikers on Pacific Crest Trail
Sacramento Bee • • health
Key Points:
- Dozens of hikers on the California section of the Pacific Crest Trail have fallen ill with a gastrointestinal illness, with 7 to 12 confirmed norovirus cases reported in the Wrightwood area of San Bernardino County.
- Norovirus, a highly contagious virus causing vomiting and diarrhea, typically leads to symptoms lasting one to three days and can remain contagious for up to two days after symptoms subside.
- The Pacific Crest Trail Association acknowledged the outbreak on social media, emphasizing the importance of hygiene to prevent further spread, including frequent handwashing with soap and water and disinfecting contaminated surfaces.
- The Pacific Crest Trail spans 2,650 miles from Canada to Mexico through Washington, Oregon, and California, attracting thousands of hikers annually for both short and extended treks.
- Norovirus outbreaks are common nationwide, with approximately 2,500 outbreaks annually, causing millions of illnesses and significant healthcare visits, underscoring the need for preventive measures among trail users.