What is Tomato Flu?The red, painful blisters that appear all over the body and grow over time until they resemble tomatoes gave the illness its name.These blisters resemble those seen with the monkeypox virus in young individuals.
Flu has been reported in India since May. The cases have been reported in Kerala and Odisha prompting the border state to maintain a strict vigil. As per a report, more than 80 cases of Tomato Flu have been identified in India. This has been a cause of worry for the district and health administration more so because it has been affecting children in the age group of 1-9. Now, as there seems to be a rising concern over this ‘rare’ infection, let us know some key points about Tomato Flu or Tomato Fever so that you and your family, especially the younger members, remain safe.
What are the symptoms?
The primary symptoms of the disease include:
- Large blisters, the size of tomatoes that are red in colour
- Rashes
- Skin irritation
- High fever
- Dehydration
- Body aches
- Joint swelling.
Some other symptoms include:
- Discoloration of hands, knees and buttocks
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal cramps
- Fatigue
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
What are the causes of tomato flu?
The causes of the disease are still unknown. Health officials are still investigating the causes of Tomato Flu. According to the latest reports, only parts of Kollam have seen tomato flu in India, but health officials have warned that this could spread to other regions if quick action is not taken on time.
Is Tomato flu contagious?
Like other cases of flu, tomato flu is also contagious. Infected children need to be kept in isolation as this flu could spread rapidly from one person to another.
Is there cause for worry?
Although it is undoubtedly contagious, health officials have lent reassurance, suggesting that it is not lethal and can be treated. However, it is advisable to avoid close contact with the infected child.
What to do when your child gets Infected?
- Contact the doctor immediately
- Maintain proper hygiene
- Do not let your child scratch the blisters
- Keep your child hydrated by making him/her drink boiled water
- Use warm water for bathing the child
- Avoid close contact with the infected person
- Clothes, utensils, and other items used by the infected child must be sanitized to prevent the flu from spreading
How can tomato flu be treated?
Currently, there is no specific treatment for tomato flu. Therefore, this disease can only be managed symptomatically.
How to prevent tomato flu’s spread?
To curb the chances of contracting tomato flu, you have to avoid close contact with the infected person.
Does Tomato Flu have anything to do with COVID-19?
While some symptoms are similar to COVID-19, Tomato Flu has nothing to do with COVID-19. Such symptoms are generally seen in other types of viral infections as well. Therefore, there is no need to panic as the authorities have been asked to remain alert.
