In addition to the COVID-19 pandemic, other flus and diseases are also spreading. Tomato fever or tomato flu is one of them. The first case of this extremely rare viral disease, which shows tomato-like blisters on the body. It affects children under the age of five. It was recorded for the first time in Kerala on 11 May 2022. Due to its contagious nature, it has spread to the neighboring states of Kerala. It was warned that the infection could spread to other countries, if containment measures are not followed immediately.

The only way to avoid the complications of the disease is to recognize the disease at an early stage and be aware of it. Here’s everything about tomato flu.

Know what tomato flu or fever is

The name “tomato flu” is due to the fact that the blisters are usually round and red in color, resembling a tomato. People affected by it develop skin irritation, blisters, rashes and dehydration. It is not yet known for sure whether its causative agent is related to chikungunya, a viral infection or dengue fever.

Healthshots spoke with Dr. Jagdish Kathawate, Consultant Neonatologist and Paediatrician, Maternity Hospital, Kharadi, Pune, to explain tomato flu in more detail.

Dr Kathawate says: “Tomato flu is a contagious viral disease caused by an enteric virus. It usually occurs in children under the age of five. Anyone with tomato flu must be isolated, because it is contagious.”

However, adults also become victims of this disease. In general, the risk of this disease is low, but in some cases it can lead to meningitis. Therefore, early detection and treatment of the disease is important.

tomato flu symptoms

Most children infected with this virus have serious problems in the form of fever, rash, skin irritation and dehydration. Tomato flu can cause blisters on many parts of the body, which are mostly red in color.

Dr Kathawate says, “Fever, painful mouth sores, blistered rash on hands, feet and buttocks, fatigue, joint pain, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, cough, sneezing, runny nose, high fever and aches in the body are some of the symptoms of tomato flu. These are similar to Chikungunya symptoms. In addition, this flu can affect a child’s ability to perform daily activities.”

Other symptoms include skin discoloration on the hands, knees and buttocks.

What can be avoided

The main cause of this flu is still unknown. So, there is no specific medicine or treatment for this flu yet. It can only be cured by abstinence. If the child is well cared for, the symptoms disappear with time.

Here are some tips to deal with this infection

Advice for infected children:

1. Children suffering from tomato flu should bathe in cold water.
2. Apply skin lotion after bathing to help soothe skin irritation.
3. Avoid scratching the skin, as this can spread the infection.
4. Drink enough water to stay hydrated. It is recommended to drink boiled water.
5. Cleanliness should be maintained around children.
6. Keep your distance from the infected person.
7. Avoid spicy and salty foods.
8. Get enough rest during the day.
9. Follow the medicine prescribed by your doctor to lower the fever.

Ways to avoid this infection:

Children should avoid contact with people who have tomato flu. Refrain from sharing utensils, clothing and other items used by an infected person. Good hygiene should be taken care of to prevent the spread of disease.

What to do if some symptoms appear?

If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, be sure to see a doctor. Tell your child to avoid scratching blisters, rashes, or other sores. They are kept clean. relax baby In addition to all this, make sure your child drinks plenty of water.