Lancet warns about ‘Tomato Flu’ in India among children

Source: The post is based on the article “Lancet warns about ‘Tomato Flu’ in India among children” published in The Hindu on 23rd August 2022.

What is the News?

Lancet has sounded an alarm over the emergence of a new non-life-threatening virus called tomato flu among children below five years of age.

Note: Tomato Flu in India was first identified in the Kollam district of Kerala.

What is Tomato Flu?

Tomato Flu is a viral disease. It is caused by Coxsackie virus A 16. It belongs to Enterovirus family. 

Note: Hand-foot-and-mouth-disease(HFMD) is a frequent febrile rash illness of childhood caused by enteroviruses(EV).

Named After: The flu was named on the basis of the eruption of red blisters giving a resemblance to a tomato.

Symptoms: The primary symptoms observed in children with tomato flu are similar to those of chikungunya, which include high fever, rashes, and intense pain in joints. 

Transmission: Tomato flu is very contagious and children are at increased risk of exposure to tomato flu as viral infections are common in this age group and spread is likely to be through close contact.

Treatment: Tomato flu is similar to chikungunya and dengue as well as hand, foot, and mouth disease. Hence, the treatment is also similar — isolation, rest, plenty of fluids, and a hot water sponge for the relief of irritation and rashes.