The Karnataka government has issued guidelines for Sabarimala pilgrims following cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis or brain fever caused by the Naegleria fowleri microorganism, commonly known as the “brain eating  amoeba.” The guidelines aim to protect public health and ensure preventive measures. 

The Commissioner of the Health Department stated on Tuesday that Naegleria fowleri is a free-living amoeba typically found in warm freshwater and sand, such as stagnant water, puddles and swimming pools.