The Health Department has sounded an H1N1 alert in Sabarimala.
Pilgrims from across the country congregate in huge numbers and in close proximity on the temple precincts and adjoining localities. The chances of the epidemic spreading are very high. There is no cause for panic, but visitors should take certain precautions.
Health Minister K.K. Shylaja said the government had urged persons with symptoms of flu to avoid visiting Sabarimala. The government counselled neighbouring States to spread the word among the people.
The government deployed medical teams at Erumely, Nilackal, Pampa, and the Sannidhanam to identify, isolate and treat pilgrims with symptoms of flu. The manifestations of the illness include fever, cold, throat pain and cough. The government has set 16 medical centres on the 4-km forest path from Pampa to the sanctum.
The department has printed pamphlets in six regional languages to distribute among pilgrims from other States. It stresses the need to maintain a high standard of personal hygiene and remain constantly hydrated.
The government has ordered that dispensaries maintain sufficient stock of medicines to treat the fever.