Appeared in southern India, in the Kerala region, the tomato flu has already infected more than 82 infants. But what do we know about this new virus?
After monkeypox, a new virus is emerging. According to the India Today media, a new virus affecting children has recently appeared in the Kerala region of southern India. Nicknamed “tomato flu”, this highly contagious virus is said to cause round, red rashes (hence its name “tomato”), as well as a series of symptoms similar to those of the seasonal flu. High fever, joint pain, nausea, diarrhea, cough and dehydration are among them.
As of May 6, 2022, the virus has already infected 82 infants in Kerala, says India Today. Compared to hand-foot-mouth syndrome by some virologists, it would be transmitted by direct contact between infected children but would not represent a great danger. “It is not a fatal disease, but is contagious and can spread from person to person, although the true ways the infection spreads are still being investigated“, says Dr. Subhash Chandra, assistant professor of internal medicine.
How is the “tomato flu” treated?
Like the hand-foot-mouth syndrome, the tomato flu cannot be cured. Only its symptoms can be treated. “Patients who develop tomato fever should drink plenty of water and rest in bed, as is advised for other viral fevers, to keep the body hydrated and well rested.“, explains Dr. Chandra. It is also essential to isolate the infected child in order to prevent the spread of the virus.
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A little boy
The “tomato flu” mainly affects children.
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The virus appeared in the spring in India
The virus is compared to that of hand-foot-mouth syndrome.
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Children may have a fever
Fever is a symptom of tomato flu.
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The “tomato flu” has appeared in India
Nicknamed “tomato flu”, this extremely contagious virus is said to cause round, red rashes.