Alongside the recent outbreaks of food poisoning, a new virus known as the tomato flu has been found in multiple areas of Kerala. More than 80 children in the state who are younger than five years old have been reported to have contracted the extremely rare tomato flu outbreak so far, as reported by the media. All of the confirmed cases have been reported from hospitals run by the local government. It is stated in the reports that the total number of cases may be far greater if the private institutions are included. It has been stated that the state health agency is keeping a close eye on the problem, and they have apparently implemented preventative measures in the regions where cases have been detected. As a result of the fact that there have been numerous cases of tomato flu reported in children in Kerala, the Karnataka Health And Wellness Preacher K Sudhakar has actually suggested to the authorities that they keep an eye on everyday visitors from the state who are going to boundary areas such as Mangaluru, Udupi, Kodagu, Chamrajnagara, and also Mysuru. In addition, Sudhakar emphasized that there was no need to freak out over anything.

What is Tomato Flu?

This recent virus known as "tomato flu" or "tomato fever" has been found mostly in the southern part of the country. Kerala and Tamil Nadu are the main states where local government hospitals have seen a lot of people with this infection. To stop this from happening, the local Aganwadi centers are being shut down and a team of 24 people has been put together to start new awareness campaigns. PTI says that medical teams from Coimbatore, Walayar, and districts in the nearby state of Kerala are testing children's flu-like symptoms to find out if they have the infection. Most of the people who get sick from this virus are under five years old. This infection gives them red, round blisters on their skin, which may be why it is called the tomato flu. There is some disagreement about whether the disease is a viral fever or a side effect of chikungunya or dengue. Even though the disease is only found in some parts of Kerala, health officials have warned that the virus could spread further if precautions are not taken.

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Symptoms of Tomato Flu

Some of the symptoms of a tomato flu outbreak are the same as those of Chikungunya. These include a high fever, body aches, swollen joints, and feeling tired. On the other hand, kids who get it get rashes and irritated skin, which can lead to blisters in different places on the body. Other signs include cramps in the stomach, feeling sick, throwing up or having diarrhea, and changing the color of the hands, knees, and buttocks. On the other hand, the exact cause of the tomato flu outbreak is unknown, and experts are still looking into the main causes of Tomato flu. It is important to be familiar with the symptoms of flu in order to recognize it quickly. 

Precautions of Tomato Flu

Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene should be the top priority. In addition to this, it is important to drink enough water. In the situation that any of the mentioned signs are noticeable, the parents seek medical attention without any delay. Children who are infected should refrain from scratching their blisters or rashes because doing so will only make the condition worse. It is important to avoid coming into close contact with the affected person in order to stop the transmission of the disease. It is recommended that patients should take a lot of rest so that they can avoid the long-term repercussions of the tomato flu.

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Treatment of Tomato Flu

Your qualified and experienced doctor is the best person to decide how to treat the patient. You can take measures to protect the child from the risk of dehydration and make sure that the directions given by the doctor are followed to treat fever and speed up the child's recovery. You have a responsibility to watch the child care so that he or she does not hurt themselves when the blisters or rash start to itch. Take precautions against both the high temperatures and the pests. Do not interact with other children, especially those who belong to the same family, until you have fully recovered. Uphold the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene both inside and outside the home. Consume only sterile water (water that has been boiled or filtered). There's no need to panic because your child needs you and you will definitely be able to battle the tomato flu outbreak.

Conclusion

This is not the first time such infections are spreading. Therefore, India can certainly deal with these infections. However, it is important for parents to stay calm and strong so that they can provide proper treatment to their children. If a kid demonstrates any of the above-mentioned symptoms, parents should seek emergency medical attention. Infected kids should drink plenty of pure water to stay hydrated. The blisters or rashes should not be scratched, and proper hygiene and cleanliness must be maintained at all times. Close contact with the sick person should be avoided by all members of the family and friends. This tomato flu outbreak needs to be taken seriously so that it does not affect others. The government is doing its part and the precautions need to be taken religiously. The government officials have ensured that there is no need to panic because they are taking necessary measures to stop it from spreading to more areas.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Are adults affected by tomato flu as well?

A. The tomato flu has been affecting children below five years as of now. The cases in adults are not yet reported. However, it is important to take necessary precautions in order to protect yourself. 

Q. Is tomato flu similar to COVID-19?

A. No, the tomato flu outbreak is not as severe as the COVID-19. Tomato flu’s symptoms include dehydration, blisters, and fever and it is in no way related to coronavirus.

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