Heat and exertion blamed for illness among Santa Barbara half-marathon runners
Cottage Health Hospital and race organizer Run Local said the illness affecting 27 runners in the Santa Barbara half-marathon on 8 November was likely caused by heat and intense exertion, and that no broader public-health threat was identified. Earlier, ABC7 reported that at least 19 participants were treated for similar symptoms while the cause remained under investigation. The Los Angeles Times noted heat as a possible factor.
KSBY said police were asking anyone who fell ill after the race to contact them. The Guardian reported that police opened an investigation after about 30 participants sought medical care, with organizers attributing the issue to heat and dehydration.