Sonoma County zeroing in on pathogen responsible for "Tough Mudder" illnesses
SONOMA COUNTY -- Authorities in Sonoma County are investigating the cause of illnesses associated with last weekend's Tough Mudder event, which took place at Sonoma Raceway and involved a muddy obstacle course.
Sonoma County officials said they are operating under the assumption that the illnesses are being caused by a waterborne bacterial pathogen known as Aeromonas until the investigation can be fully completed.
A spokesperson for the Tough Mudder event said Thursday that the organization followed all necessary protocols before and after the event.
Reports of rashes, fever, vomiting and other ailments prompted Sonoma County officials to issue a health advisory Wednesday.
"We are requesting that clinicians obtain cultures from infected patients and report the results to us," Matt Brown, a spokesperson for the county, said Thursday. "We have received seven confirmed cases of Aeromonas thus far."
The Tough Mudder race involved extensive skin exposure to mud, according to the county, adding that the most affected people have pustular rash, fever, myalgias and headache.
KPIX reached out to Tough Mudder about the reports and received the following statement.
"We are aware of some reports of individuals experiencing an adverse health reaction following participation in the Tough Mudder Sonoma event this past weekend. We want to let you know, that the health and safety of the Tough Mudder community is always our top priority, and accordingly, we are actively taking all necessary steps to fully investigate the matter. If you are experiencing any medical concerns, please consider seeing your doctor. We thank you for understanding and patience as we continue to look into the matter."
Charlie Bernard, a spokesperson for Tough Mudder, said the organization has reached out to every registered participant and spectator, urging them to contact their medical professional or emergency room if they are experiencing an unresolved or worsening rash, flu-like symptoms, fever, fatigue or myalgia, commonly known as nerve pain.
The county has provided a link to a Canadian website for people who want to learn more about Aeromonas.