VA – Stomach Bug, Updated 5/13/25

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Hiking Safety

Alert

05/13/2025

Update: The ATC has received several reports of stomach bug now just north and south of Damascus, VA. Those attending Trail Days should be diligent about washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You should wash your hands before eating, after using the bathroom, and before touching your face. If you become sick, avoid others and continue to avoid others for two to three days after symptoms subside.

Learn more here.

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05/06/2025

Update: The ATC continues to receive reports of suspected norovirus along the A.T. The bulk of reports continue to center around the Triple Crown/McAfee Knob area of Virginia. However, reports of suspected norovirus on the A.T. in Virginia have come in as far south as Helveys Mill Shelter and as far north as the Front Royal area (NOBO miles 594.3 and 972.4), including one case that required evacuation.

Dehydration is the biggest concern for those who contract norovirus in the backcountry. Take the following steps to prevent contracting and spreading stomach bugs, norovirus, and other illness. Learn more here.

Click the image for a larger version.

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04/29/2025

Stomach bug cases have been reported on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) along the North Carolina/Tennessee border just south and north of the town of Hot Springs, NC, and in Virginia near McAfee Knob. Hikers are reminded to practice good hygiene on the Trail.

Take the following steps to prevent contracting and spreading stomach bugs, norovirus, and other illness:

  • Do not eat out of the same food bag, share utensils, or drink from other hikers’ water bottles.
  • Wash your hands with biodegradable soap (200 feet from water sources) before eating or preparing food and after toileting.
  • Be aware that alcohol-based sanitizer is not effective against norovirus. Washing hands with soap and water is best.
  • Treat all water and be aware that most filters do not filter out viruses. To learn best how to treat your water, click here for information from the CDC.
  • Follow Leave No Trace guidelines for disposing of human waste.
  • If you experience stomach bug symptoms, limit contact with others and avoid preparing food for others when sick and for two to three days after symptoms stop.
  • If you get sick, seek medical treatment in town, especially if you become dehydrated or your sickness lasts more than a few days.

Learn more here. Report suspected cases of norovirus to the local health department and to ATC at stomachbug@appalachiantrail.org.

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