Norovirus Outbreak Overview

A significant norovirus outbreak occurred among Colorado River rafters and backcountry campers in the Grand Canyon in 2022, revealing the challenges of managing public health in remote wilderness settings. The outbreak was investigated by the National Park Service in collaboration with the CDC and local health departments, leading to a total of 222 reported cases, with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. This incident highlighted the virus's ease of transmission, especially in tight, shared quarters typical of river rafting trips. The conditions facilitated rapid spread, as close human interactions, shared food, and communal spaces contributed to the outbreak's severity.