Hikers visiting Arizona’s famed blue-green waterfalls are falling ill, raising serious concerns about water safety. Despite rigorous precautions, many campers report severe symptoms after drinking from local springs. Authorities and health experts are now investigating the cause and implementing preventive measures.
Hikers Fall Ill at Popular Arizona Destination
Numerous hikers reported falling ill after visiting a renowned Arizona tourist spot with majestic blue-green waterfalls near Grand Canyon National Park. They experienced severe symptoms such as vomiting and fever following their trips.
Vet’s Struggle with Severe Symptoms
Madelyn Melchiors, a veterinarian from Kingman, Arizona, suffered intense vomiting and a prolonged fever after camping on the Havasupai reservation. She recounted her ordeal, describing the extreme difficulty of hiking back to her car in the sweltering heat.
Exhausted Hiker’s Desperate Measures
In a weakened state, Melchiors managed to hike out with her pack transported by a mule for several miles. She emphasized the critical assistance of the mule, which helped her survive the grueling trek
Health Services Respond to Illness Outbreak
The federal Indian Health Service confirmed providing medical care to the affected individuals on the reservation. Environmental health officers were dispatched to investigate the outbreak’s source and implement preventive measures.
Efforts to Protect Health and Safety
The agency stressed their commitment to the health and well-being of Havasupai residents and visitors. They are collaborating with local health authorities to manage and contain the situation effectively.
Suspected Water Contamination
Melchiors reported drinking from a spring tested and listed as potable, as well as other sources using a gravity-fed filter. Despite precautions, she still fell ill, raising concerns about potential water contamination.
Hygiene Challenges in the Wilderness
She noted the challenges of maintaining hygiene, despite using hand sanitizer regularly. The difficulties of accessing soap and water in such a remote area further complicated the situation.
Uncertainty About Illness Scope
Coconino County health officials acknowledged receiving reports of gastrointestinal illness from hikers. However, they are uncertain about the total number of affected individuals since the reservation falls outside their jurisdiction.
County Urges Precautions for Hikers
Trish Lees, a county health spokesperson, advised hikers to take extra precautions, including filtering water to prevent illness. She highlighted the importance of watching for early symptoms of norovirus and isolating sick individuals to avoid spreading the virus.
Remote and Picturesque Destination
Each year, thousands of tourists journey to the Havasupai reservation to camp near stunning waterfalls. This remote location is accessible only by foot, helicopter, or by riding a horse or mule.
Challenging Eight-Mile Hike
The hike to the first waterfall is an arduous 8-mile trek through desert terrain. The village of Supai, home to about 500 tribal members, and the campsites with waterfalls at both ends are further along the trail.
Vital Tourism for the Havasupai Tribe
Tourism is crucial for the Havasupai Tribe, with the campground featuring limited infrastructure. Despite composting toilets and requests for campers to pack out refuse, recent reports indicate trails are littered with garbage.
Water Safety Assured
The Havasupai Tribe Tourism Office confirmed that water from a local spring, tested last week, is safe for drinking. Nonetheless, health officials stress the importance of water filtration and hygiene to prevent illness.
Helicopter Evacuations Reported
FOX-10 TV in Phoenix reported on the illnesses, noting some groups had to take a helicopter out of the canyon due to severe sickness. Social media posts from dozens of hikers describe their struggles with gastrointestinal problems.
Reflecting on the Experience
Melchiors shared her lingering discomfort, indicating she might approach her next trip differently. The recent illness outbreak has prompted many to reconsider their preparations for future visits.
