How to Avoid Stomach Illness While Hiking.
06/16/2025Instructions for Hikers During a Stomach Flu Outbreak
Instructions for Hikers During a Stomach Flu Outbreak
⚠️ A responsible hiker avoids risk areas and follows Metsähallitus’ recommendations and closures.
Stay in your own tent, not in shared spaces.
🧼 Hygiene is important
Carry your own bar of soap and wash your hands with water.
Do not wash your hands in natural water sources – do it on dry land.
🍽️ Use only your own dishes
Do not share utensils, even within your group.
Dry dishes well and store them in breathable containers (not plastic bags).
Use protective gloves when touching shared surfaces like door handles, stove lids, or toilet seats.
A responsible hiker cleans up after themselves.
💧 Use your own water container
If using a hut’s drinking water bucket, use it only for clean drinking water.
Do not fill your bottle directly above the bucket.
Boil water for 5 minutes to ensure it is safe to drink.
🤒 If you get sick
Isolate yourself and inform others immediately.
If you stayed in a hut, leave a note on the door to warn others.
Always carry your own shelter – your tent is your safety.
Drink plenty of water – dehydration is the biggest risk.
If possible, leave via the shortest or easiest route.
Call emergency number 112 if you cannot move – stay in an area with phone signal and follow instructions.