Dozens of hikers visiting Havasupai Falls at the bottom of the Grand Canyon have reported falling violently ill with a mysterious sickness. Maylin Griffiths, who visited the falls in Arizona to celebrate her 40th birthday, shared her terrifying experience of suddenly falling very ill. Her symptoms included vomiting and gastrointestinal issues, and her temperature rose to 104 degrees. Another friend in her group also became severely ill, prompting them to hike back several miles to a village in the canyon for medical attention.
Mary Blair, another hiker, recounted a similar experience where her son developed norovirus-like symptoms on the final night of their forty-mile hike to the falls. They had to hike two miles to a helicopter pad in the middle of the night to seek medical help. Over 300 people shared similar stories on Facebook, with symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea.
The cause of the mass illness remains unknown, but Blair mentioned that the close quarters of nearly 400 campers and limited sanitary facilities may have contributed. The Havasupai Tribe Tourism Office reassured the public that water sources on the reservation are regularly tested for safety and advised visitors to stay hydrated and properly dispose of trash and personal items.
These incidents highlight the importance of being prepared and mindful of health and safety measures while exploring remote natural areas. It serves as a reminder for hikers and campers to pack essentials, stay hydrated, and follow proper waste disposal practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience.