Sonoma County Officials Issue Health Advisory After Hundreds Sickened at Tough Mudder Obstacle Course
Sonoma County officials have issued a health advisory after hundreds of participants in a Tough Mudder obstacle course at Sonoma Raceway reported developing various health issues. The event took place last weekend and within 24 hours, participants complained of rashes with boils, fevers, muscle pain, nausea, and vomiting.
The Tough Mudder event is known for its challenging obstacles that require participants to navigate through mud and waist-deep muddy water. Health officials suspect that exposure to these conditions may have contributed to the illnesses. The symptoms reported by affected individuals, including pustular rash, fever, myalgias, and headache, can be indicative of a minor illness called Swimmers’ Itch. However, they could also be signs of more serious bacterial infections such as Aeromonas or Staph infection.
According to a study from the Infectious Diseases Society of America, Aeromonas can be transmitted through contaminated waterways and soil. Sonoma County officials are urging participants experiencing symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.
The news of the outbreak came to light after numerous reports were shared on the Toughmudder subreddit, with participants detailing their experiences. Some claim they had to spend the night in the emergency room due to pus-filled blisters covering their skin. Nicole Villagran, a participant who suffered red welts and flu-like symptoms, mentioned that she encountered moments during the race where she could smell cow manure and was unable to complete certain obstacles.
While Tough Mudder has not yet responded to the situation, Redditors shared that Tough Mudder Sonoma has reached out to affected participants and advised them to seek medical care. The organization stated that the health and safety of their community is their top priority and they are actively investigating the matter.
Sonoma County officials have confirmed seven cases of Aeromonas so far, but participant Chris Palakos believes that many more individuals may be infected and have not yet been documented. Palakos mentioned hearing of at least 350 people on an email thread, all experiencing red spots on areas of their bodies that touched the ground.
The incubation period for the infection is 24 to 48 hours, and Sonoma County Public Health can be contacted for more information at 707-565-4567.
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential health risks associated with outdoor events and the importance of proper sanitation and hygiene measures in such settings.