Grand Canyon park to flatten North Rim yurt for health safety

PHOENIX — Officials for the Grand Canyon National Park have permanently shut down a backcountry yurt used by outdoors lovers, citing health safety.

The yurt at CC Hill on the North Rim was closed Sept. 21 and was set to be demolished before winter.

The decision was made so that park visitors — mainly hikers and backpackers — and workers could lessen the chance of exposure to infectious rodent-related diseases including hantavirus.

Officials pointed out that there has been no evidence anyone has become ill from exposure to an infected rodent at the yurt.

Hantavirus is transmitted to humans through rodent droppings, urine, and saliva particularly in indoor, poorly ventilated areas.

The Centers for Disease Control has said hantavirus pulmonary syndrome could be deadly to humans.

There have been four cases of hantavirus reported in Coconino County since 2006. Two were fatal.

The yurt could sleep up to six and provided basic shelter. The round, domed tent had a skylight, a small table with chairs, a wood-burning stove and a portable toilet.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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