Outdoor enthusiasts in the United States and United Kingdom often seek adventure in the wilderness, whether it’s hiking, camping, or backpacking. While these activities can be invigorating, they also present potential risks, such as exposure to waterborne viruses. Waterborne viruses are a significant concern for outdoor enthusiasts, as contaminated water can lead to severe illness, dehydration, and even death.

In 2018, an outbreak of norovirus affected hundreds of hikers along the Appalachian Trail in the United States. More recently, at Grand Canyon National Park, over 200 hikers and rafters were struck down by vomiting and diarrhea, again from an outbreak of norovirus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), norovirus is in the Top 5 causes of all recreational water outbreaks in the United States between 1971–2020.

Noroviruses are waterborne viruses which are approximately 27-38 nanometres in diameter. With most popular water filter brands only removing bacteria and cysts bigger than 100-200 nanometres, they would fail to protect consumers against Norovirus. Rather than using a cheap water filter, the best way to protect against all micrbiological contaminants, including waterborne viruses, is to use a portable water purifier. Portable water purifiers are essential items for outdoor enthusiasts, as they provide a reliable and convenient way to purify water from streams, lakes, and other natural sources.

Investing in a portable water purifier is a wise decision for outdoor enthusiasts in the United States and United Kingdom. Not only will it help protect against waterborne viruses, but it will also ensure that you have access to safe, clean drinking water no matter where your adventures take you.

Our LifeSaver water purifiers protect users from all waterborne viruses, bacteria and cysts. The optional Activated Carbon Filters give additional protection by reducing heavy metals and chemicals, as well as removing bad taste and odour from the water. When your health and safety is on the line, it’s worth investing in equipment you can rely on.

Surveillance Reports for Recreational Water-associated Disease & Outbreaks

A ‘Rampant’ Disease Outbreak Is Making Hikers and Tourists Sick in the Grand Canyon