Tomato Flu or Tomato Fever: What is it and how to prevent it?

Amid the glaring threat of monkeypox, India has suffered yet another blow in the form of rare 'Tomato Flu', also known as 'Tomato Fever'. It was first reported in India back in May this year, but the number of cases has seen a steep rise in the past couple of days.

A total of 80 cases of Tomato flu have been recorded in Kerala and Odisha so far, putting the adjoining states on high alert.

The spread of Tomato Fever is a major cause of concern for state administrations as it is infecting children in the age group of 1 to 9 years.

As the problem seems to be rising rapidly, here we are with every single detail you need to understand and prevent the infection. Have a look:

Tomato flu is a rare viral infection, which is easily traceable because of the red-coloured rashes it causes which look like tomatoes. It also causes skin irritation and dehydration.

The infection was named 'Tomato Flu' because it causes red blisters which resemble tomatoes. The experts have identified it as a hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD).

It is mostly affecting children because adults already have an immune system strong enough to combat against the virus.

A patient of Tomato Flu or Tomato Fever is presented with the following symptoms:

• Rash and blisters on hands, buttocks and feet
• Severe body pain
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Painful sores in mouth
• Skin irritation
• Joint Swelling
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea

Experts are yet to find out the main causes behind the disease. The research is still underway to define the causes of the infection.

As per the media reports, Tomato Flu has only spread in the Kollam region of Kerala, but the health officials have alerted the adjoining regions to be on high alert as it can spread across borders quickly if appropriate action is delayed.

There are a few uncanny similarities between the symptoms of both Tomato Flu and COVID-19, but they are not related in any way. These symptoms are common in other viral infections too.

Just like COVID-19, Tomato Flu also does not have any specific drugs to treat it. It is a self-limiting disease where doctors only focus on subsiding the symptoms until the infection disappears on its own.

Doctors are recommending to avoid coming in contact with the patient of Tomato Flu as it spreads quickly from person to person. Infected people are suggested to stay in isolation for five-seven days.

Currently, the doctors are administering the same course of treatment for Tomato Flu they use for chikungunya and dengue, because the symptoms are very similar. Patients are advised to consume plenty of fluids and take a hot water sponge to handle the rash.

As there is very little concrete information available about Tomato Flu, experts have suggested to follow the common precautionary measures to prevent any viral infection. These methods include keeping the surrounding properly sanitised and hygienic.

Moreover, the infected patient must be kept in isolation till the symptoms disappear. Parents should also ensure that the family members do not share the food, or touch the toys or clothes of the infected child. Children should also be inspired not to touch or scratch the blisters.

Tomato Flu or Tomato Fever is a very serious concern for the masses as it is mainly infecting children as they do not have a strong immune system. Hence, it is advised to keep the children indoors as much as possible and make them wear protective masks and gloves when they go outside.