Karnataka Issues Health Advisory for Sabarimala Pilgrims on Naegleria Risk

Overview

• The Commissionerate of Health and Family Welfare Services issued the advisory on Tuesday for pilgrims traveling from Karnataka to Sabarimala.
• Naegleria fowleri is described as a free‑living amoeba found mainly in warm freshwater that infects only when water enters the nose.
• The advisory clarifies that the illness does not spread from person to person and is not acquired by drinking contaminated water.
• Pilgrims are urged to use nose clips or hold the nose tightly while bathing in stagnant water during the Yatra to reduce risk.
• Officials list early symptoms such as fever, severe headache, vomiting, stiff neck, confusion, or behavioral changes within seven days of water contact and advise immediate care at the nearest government hospital or doctor.