Outbreak of Tomato Flu in Southern Parts of India

What is Tomato Flu?

In a few parts of Kerala, a new virus known as tomato flu has been detected after the covid-19 pandemic. Almost 80 children in Kollam city of Kerala have been diagnosed with tomato flu and it is spreading rapidly. All the cases that are confirmed have been diagnosed in children below 5 years. They have been admitted to the local government hospitals. The number of children admitted to the private hospitals is not yet been included in the tally it may be higher than 80 cases.

It is recognized as tomato flu because it causes tomato-shaped blisters on the body. The children diagnosed with tomato flu are experiencing fever, rashes, and skin irritation. Some children are also suffering from dehydration. The increasing effect of tomato flu in Kollam the neighboring districts like Mangaluru, Udupi, Kodagu, Chamrajnagara, and Mysuru are on high alert and are directed to keep an eye on the daily travelers. The flu has reached Aryankavu, Anchal, and Nedivathur in Kerala.

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Symptoms of Tomato Flu

There are several symptoms of tomato flu and some are still undiagnosed. The known symptoms are given below. If these symptoms are found in children, consult a doctor as soon as possible.

• Rashes
• Skin irritation
• Tiredness
• Joint pain
• High fever
• Body aches
• Discoloration of knees, hands, and buttocks
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Runny nose

Cause of Tomato Flu

Causes of tomato flu are still unknown and the health officers are investigating the undiagnosed fever children below the age of 5 are suffering from. Only children below the age of 5 are affected by tomato flu. The Bhruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palika says that Bangalore has no cases of tomato flu in the City, till now only Kollam has reported the outbreak of tomato flu.

Preventions for Tomato flu

As soon as the symptoms are diagnosed in children consult a doctor. Dehydration is also a cause of tomato flu so the children are advised to drink water regularly and stay hydrated. Take care of the rashes with proper hygiene and cleanliness.

Role of Government in Tomato Flu Alert

The Kerala government has formed a 24-member team to treat the children suffering from tomato flu in all Anganwadi centers. To supervise the spread of tomato flu 3 teams have been formed, revenue inspector, health inspector, and police. Kerala health minister K.Sudhakar on Wednesday said that “Those symptoms are similar to Covid-19, the tomato flu has nothing to do with it. The symptoms are usually seen in other types of viral infections also. There is no need to panic as the authorities have been asking us to remain alert. Moreover, the tomato flu is endemic to Kerala.”

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