Doctors opened a new alert viral infection which is gaining ground in India. Tomato flu, as it is called, is a type of hand, foot and mouth disease, which can be caused by various enteroviruses.
according to The Lancet RespiratoryCases of ‘tomato flu’ were first reported in Kollam, Kerala, on May 6, and so far, it has infected 82 children. These children are under 5 years old.
credit: _jure/istockThe tomato influenza virus causes a rash that gradually grows
The infectious disease is caused by enteroviruses and is rare in adults, as they usually have strong enough immune systems to defend against the virus.
Tomato flu got its name because of the red, painful blisters that appear on the body and gradually increase in size until they resemble tomatoes.
Signs and symptoms of tomato flu
The main signs and symptoms of tomato flu in children are high fever, rash, joint pain, body aches, fatigue, joint swelling, nausea, diarrhea, and dehydration.
Credit: Povorozniuk Liudmyla / istockExperts say the infection is a type of hand, foot and mouth disease, with additional symptoms such as joint pain and a high temperature.
Diagnosis and treatment
Patients with these symptoms undergo molecular and serological tests to detect herpes, varicella zoster, varicella zoster virus, dengue fever, and yellow fever. The presence of tomato virus is checked once these viral diseases have been ruled out.
There are no specific medications for tomato flu. Affected children should be kept in isolation, rest and drink plenty of fluids. Paracetamol is indicated to control fever and body aches.
How is the virus transmitted?
The disease spreads from person to person like the common cold, through close contact, and contact with secretions (particularly the nose and throat), including faeces, for example during diaper changing in day care centres.
