So-called tomato flu has affected more than 80 minors in several Indian states, authorities say
The Indian government has issued an advisory to all states amid the spread of a new type of flu. The viral illness, which mainly affects minors, results in the formation of red blisters that look like tomatoes – hence the name of the disease, tomato flu.
More than 82 cases involving children under the age of five have been reported, according to a statement released by India’s Health Ministry on Tuesday, with the disease common in southern states of the country. The first case of influenza was reported in the state of Kerala on May 6.
Although scientists believe the novel flu is a type of hand-foot-mouth disease (HFMD), they have so far been unable to identify the exact nature of the pathogen.
However, authorities were quick to assure the public that the new virus was not related to Covid-19 or monkeypox.
Symptoms of the disease can be confused with those of other viral infections, especially in the early stages, officials warn. Children who have contracted the disease usually develop fever, loss of appetite, sore throat, mouth ulcers, and rashes, usually confined to the hands and feet.
If tomato flu is suspected, a child should be quarantined for up to a week to prevent the spread of the virus, advises the Department of Health.
Although there is currently no disease-specific medication to treat the infection, it is said to be relatively mild, with symptoms resolving on their own within a few days. Authorities advise patients to take acetaminophen to relieve fever and body aches, to drink plenty of fluids and to rest. Warm water sponges can also be applied to the rash to relieve irritation, according to the advice.
Indian authorities have noted that throat and nose swabs should be taken if tomato flu is suspected, with samples being tested to rule out other infectious diseases such as dengue fever, chikungunya, zika virus, varicella virus -shingles and herpes.