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37m ago

Karnataka Issues Health Advisory for Sabarimala Pilgrims Over Naegleria Risk

Officials warn the rare infection occurs only when contaminated freshwater enters the nose, making early recognition and nose-blocking measures critical.

Karnataka Warns Sabarimala Pilgrims, Brain Eating Amoeba Spike Makes Freshwater Dips Risky, Stick to Safe Pools Instead
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Overview

  • Karnataka’s Commissionerate of Health and Family Welfare Services issued the advisory on Tuesday for devotees traveling to Kerala’s Sabarimala shrine.
  • The notice explains that Naegleria fowleri lives in warm freshwater and does not spread person to person or through drinking water.
  • Pilgrims are told to use nose clips or firmly hold the nose shut during bathing or water rituals and to avoid stagnant pools and similar water bodies.
  • Travellers should seek emergency care if, within seven days of water contact, they develop fever, severe headache, nausea or vomiting, neck stiffness, confusion, or behavioral changes.
  • Kerala and Karnataka have both circulated guidance for the pilgrimage season, with Kerala also deploying medical teams, control centers, and emergency facilities along the route.