Karnataka’s Health Department on Tuesday issued an advisory to pilgrims from the State heading to Sabarimala about precautions to follow to keep themselves safe from amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) caused by Naegleria fowleri, sometimes called the “brain-eating amoeba”.
The advisory states that the amoeba is found mainly in warm freshwater sources and mud, and does not spread from person to person or from drinking contaminated water.
The advisory cautions people to use nose clips or hold the nose tightly to prevent the water from entering while bathing in stagnant water, saying the Naegleria fowleri is highly virulent, entering through the nose and reaching the brain, causing the serious, fatal disease.
People have been advised to visit the nearest hospital if they experience symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, neck stiffness or behavioural disorders within seven days of contact with the water.
Published – November 18, 2025 10:59 pm IST
