Dozens Sickened by Contagious Virus on PCT

A highly contagious stomach virus has sickened dozens of hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail since mid-May. Health officials have identified the illness as norovirus, known for causing vomiting, diarrhea, and severe dehydration. This poses a significant danger to hikers in remote backcountry areas.

The outbreak was particularly concentrated in the San Gabriel Mountains near Wrightwood, prompting health warnings. While this area is far south of Shasta County, hikers can inadvertently spread the virus throughout California as they travel the trail. Cases have been severe enough to require at least one hiker to be airlifted for emergency treatment.

Norovirus spreads easily through close contact and contaminated food or water, making long-distance trails particularly vulnerable. Public health officials emphasize that even minor lapses in hygiene can fuel outbreaks due to the virus's high contagiousness and the limited sanitation in backcountry settings. The Pacific Crest Trail Association is collaborating with public health officials to address the situation and advises hikers to take precautions.