Tough Mudder Participants in California Develop Rash, Fever, and Vomiting: What to know
Last weekend, several individuals participating in the Tough Mudder obstacle course race in California have reported the development of bacterial infections. The Sonoma County Health Department (SDHD) issued a health advisory on Wednesday, August 23rd, warning participants about potential infection risks.
According to SDHD, after taking part in the Tough Mudder event at Sonoma Raceway on August 19th and 20th, 112 people reported symptoms of a “reddish, itchy rash with pustules resembling an infection.” Symptoms of the infection included fever, muscle pain, headache, and vomiting.
SDHD stated that they are investigating the causes of the infection, suspecting that it might be due to bacteria present in the mud used in the obstacle course. They are urging anyone who participated in the Tough Mudder event and experienced symptoms of bacterial infection to seek medical assistance.
Tough Mudder is a 10 to 12-mile obstacle course race that challenges participants both physically and mentally. It includes unique challenges such as crawling through mud, jumping over fire, and swinging from monkey bars.
This is not the first time that reports of bacterial infections related to Tough Mudder events have surfaced. In 2016, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) investigated an outbreak of gastrointestinal illness among Tough Mudder participants in Nevada. The CDC found that the outbreak was caused by Campylobacter bacteria, which are commonly found in contaminated water.
SDHD is currently collaborating with Tough Mudder to investigate the recent outbreak of bacterial infection. They are also urging steps to improve mud safety in the obstacle course to prevent future outbreaks.
Tough Mudder expressed deep concern about the recent reports of bacterial infections. The company is working with SDHD to investigate the causes of the infection and prevent future outbreaks. They are committed to ensuring the safety of their participants and will continue working with health officials to ensure the security of their events.
The outbreak of bacterial infection among Tough Mudder participants in California’s event serves as a reminder of potential risks. Participants should be aware of the possibility of bacterial infections and take steps to protect themselves, such as frequent hand washing and avoiding contact with potentially contaminated mud.
If you participate in an obstacle course race like Tough Mudder and develop any symptoms of bacterial infection, such as fever, muscle pain, headache, or vomiting, seek medical assistance immediately.
