Maldivians travelling to Kerala state in India have been cautioned over the spread of a serious brain infection.

In a statement issued last week, the Maldives Consulate General in Trivandrum said the state's health ministry had also warned people to be vigilant against the spread of the brain-eating amoeba infection.

The statement noted that health experts advise people not to get into rivers and to cover their ears and nose if they go to swimming pools to prevent the disease.

Symptoms include cough, headache and vomiting, as well as back pain, nausea and fits. The consulate urged people to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any symptoms.

Although rare, the disease is dangerous.

According to the media, four cases of the infection have been reported in Kerala in recent days. Three children, among the four cases, have already died due to the disease.