Safe health advisory issued for pilgrims going to Sabarimala

With cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis (a rare, severe infection of the brain) caused by Naegleria fowleri being reported in Kerala, the Health and Family Welfare Department has issued precautionary guidelines for pilgrims travelling from Karnataka to Sabarimala for the Mandala Puja season.

Through the advisory, the Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare has urged them to be careful about their health and follow all necessary safety measures to prevent any infection.

Naegleria fowleri is a free-living amoeba commonly found in warm freshwater and soil — for example, stagnant water, ponds, swimming pools and lakes. The infection, however, does not spread from person to person nor does it spread by drinking contaminated water, the advisory said.

When contaminated water enters the nose, the amoeba can reach the brain and cause amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare, serious and often fatal disease.

Hence, during pilgrimage, it is advised to take precautions like using nose clips or one can close his nostrils tight while bathing in stagnant or open water to prevent water from entering the nose.

If found having symptoms like fever, severe headache, nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, confusion, altered mental state or changes in behaviour within seven days of exposure to water, it is advised that pilgrims visit a government hospital or consult a doctor without any further delay, the advisory has said.