The National Park Service is investigating a mysterious illness that has afflicted a group of white water rafters on a recent trip through the Grand Canyon. Participants reported experiencing severe, lingering flu-like symptoms and bacterial infections that have baffled medical professionals.
One rafter, Matthew Wappett, who floated the Colorado River over a month ago, described his ongoing illness to NBC. He reported feeling as if he had completed a strenuous workout daily, despite minimal physical activity. The ailment initially manifested as a severe bacterial infection in his knee, which required IV antibiotics and a full course of oral antibiotics for treatment. Although the infection has cleared, Wappett continues to experience debilitating flu-like symptoms.
Other rafters who participated in the trip have shared similar experiences in a Grand Canyon Private Boaters Facebook group. Some have speculated that the symptoms are akin to those of chikungunya or dengue fever. The National Park Service confirmed its awareness of the trip and the reported illnesses. A spokesperson stated that the National Park Service Office of Public Health is leading the investigation, coordinating with relevant public health partners.
The park service has declined to provide further details on the extent of the illness or potential diagnoses while the investigation is ongoing. Wappett is awaiting lab test results that he hopes will shed light on the source of his persistent symptoms.