Another Flu? 'Tomato Flu' Outbreak Reported in India
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected the entire planet, a number of illnesses have appeared, including monkeypox and the recently discovered "tomato flu."
Leah Mukangai 
Tomato flu is a new virus that has been seen to make headlines, especially in India. The virus, also known as tomato fever has been reported to be causing several symptoms which are similar to the COVID-19 virus. Fever, fatigue, and body aches are among the symptoms being experienced.
According to an article published in the Lancet Respiratory Medicine on August 17, even though the virus is uncommon, at least 100 cases have been reported in India since the initial case was discovered in the state of Kerala on May 6.
Origin of Tomato flu
Tomato flu was first reported in the Kollam district, southern district of Kerala, India on May 6, 2022.
The red, rounded blisters that the virus creates, which grow to resemble the size of tomatoes, are how it derives its name. Children under the age of five are the main victims. The illness could be a result of dengue or chikungunya fevers, or it could be a brand-new strain of the viral hand, foot, and mouth disease.
A child infected with tomato flu. PHOTO FILE
“Tomato flu could be an after-effect of chikungunya or dengue fever in children rather than a viral infection. The virus could also be a new variant of the viral hand, foot, and mouth disease, a common infectious disease targeting mostly children aged 1 to 5 years and immunocompromised adults,' Gujarat's L.M. College of Pharmacy's Vivek Chavda wrote.
What are the Tomato flu symptoms?
Fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, dehydration, joint swelling, body aches, and typical influenza-like symptoms are among the symptoms experienced.
Scientists and public health officials are still looking into the recent wave of cases, which included 82 instances recorded in children under the age of five in neighborhood hospitals in Kerala and an additional 26 cases in children between the ages of one and nine in Tamil Nadu, a neighboring state.
What is the treatment for the Tomato flu?
There is no specific medication for treating the disease, and it may run its course with time.
According to the Lancet, the recommended course of treatment is identical to that given to small children who have dengue and chikungunya: plenty of fluids, relaxation, and hot water sponge baths to soothe itchy rashes. Additionally, fever-reducing drugs like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be administered to children.
The Lancet journal advises a five- to seven-day isolation period due to the high contagiousness of tomato flu. Other measures to stop the virus's transmission include washing your hands frequently and avoiding sharing toys, food, or clothing with sick people.
How is Tomato flu spread?
The virus can also spread when people come into contact with dirty diapers or unclean surfaces, or when kids put infected objects in their mouths.
