Rafters Ill with Norwalk-Like Virus

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Ariz. - Some 51 people have become ill with a Norwalk-like virus that has caused gastrointestinal illness.

The rafters were hiking the Grand Canyon when infected. Officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tracked the virus back to a portable toilet used by one of the rafting groups.

Norwalk-like viruses cause a variety of symptoms including vomiting and diarrhea. They are spread through person-to-person contact and poor sanitation.

Officials report several points along the Colorado River are also being tested as a precaution.

Those anticipating hiking the Grand Canyon should filter and treat drinking water taken from the river, wash hands frequently and prevent ill persons from preparing food.

Information from www.azcentral.com