Tomato flu spreading in India - Lancet warns

Tags: Science and Technology

Following the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing monkeypox, the Lancet has warned India about a new infectious disease, Tomato Flu or Tomato Fever.

IMPORTANT FACTS -

• It was first identified in the Kollam district of Kerala on May 6, 2022.

• On July 26 in local government hospitals, more than 82 children under the age of 5 have been confirmed to be infected with the disease.

• This endemic viral disease has put the neighbouring states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka on alert.

• In addition, 26 children (1-9 years of age) have been confirmed for the disease by the Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar in Odisha.

What is Tomato Flu ?

• It is a rare viral disease that causes red blisters, skin irritation and dehydration. 

• The blisters that occur in this disease look like a tomato, hence it is called tomato flu.

• It is a form of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD).

• It is caused by Coxsackie virus A 16. It belongs to Enterovirus family.

• The disease is rare in adults because they usually have an immune system strong enough to defend against the virus.

Symptoms of the disease :

• Blisters

• Diarrhoea

• Dehydration

• In some cases, the discoloration of the hands and knees also fades.

Treatment of the disease :

• It is a self-limiting disease and there are no specific drugs for it.

• It is similar to chikungunya and dengue, utensils, clothes and other items used by the infected persons must be sanitised to prevent the flu from spreading. 

• Fluid intake should be increased to counter dehydration.