The first case of tomato flu was discovered on May 6, 2022, in Kerala's Kollam district. The extremely infectious tomato flu spreads by feces, nasal secretions, throat secretions, blister fluid, and oral routes.Tomato flu is named after the widespread appearance of painful, red blisters that eventually grow to the size of tomatoes.

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, “Additionally, 26 children (aged between 1-9 years) have been reported as having the disease in Odisha by the Regional Medical Research Centre in Bhubaneswar. To date, apart from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, and Odisha, no other regions in India have reported the disease in their State and Union Territories by the virus.”

Tips to avoid Tomato flu

• Wash your hands with soap and water more often
• Try to avoid close contact
• Cover your mouth while sneezing

Contagious diseases like tomato flu are brought on by many viruses. Infants and young children under the age of five are often affected, however, occasionally adults will contract it as well. 

Symptoms of Tomato flu

• fatigue, 
• Nausea, 
• Diarrhea
• Fever,
• Dehydration
• Swelling of joints
• Body aches
• Common influenza-like symptoms

Tomato Flu is a self-limiting infectious condition, with signs and symptoms that disappear within seven to ten days. For 5-7 days following the development of any symptom, isolation should be used to stop the sickness from spreading to other kids or adults.

Do this when a child is infected with Tomato flu

To stay hydrated, children exposed to the virus should drink a lot of boiling water. It is not advisable to scrape the blisters and rashes. Preserve a clean and wholesome atmosphere. Take a warm bath or shower.

Up till now, there are no antiviral medications or vaccines that can be used to treat or prevent tomato flu. So it is better to be safe and prevent it at first for the child’s well-being.

(Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be taken as professional medical advice.  Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other health professionals for any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.)