First case of Tomato fever found in Kerala

Context

The first case of tomato fever was found in a group of about 80 children in Kerala becoming endemic to the state.

• So far, tomato fever has been reported in Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Odisha. Although authorities are on alert over its spread.

What is tomato fever?

• Tomato flu or tomato fever is a rare viral disease – also known as the hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) – which is said to cause red-coloured rashes, skin irritation and dehydration.
• The infection has nothing to do with tomatoes but gets its name from the reddish blisters it causes – which look like tomatoes. 
• It is contagious and has been known to affect children under the age of five.
  
  
  

Symptoms of tomato fever

• Apart from rashes and skin irritations, here are some common symptoms of the viral disease that have been observed-
  • High fever
  • Body ache
  • Joint swelling
  • Dehydration
  • Fatigue
  • Fever, painful sores in the mouth, a rash with blisters on hands, feet, and buttocks, tiredness, joint pain, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, high fever, and body aches, are some of the signs of tomato flu. 
    • They are similar to the symptoms of

How to prevent and recover from tomato fever?

• Like most viral diseases, tomato fever can be prevented by avoiding contact with infected persons or contaminated surfaces.
• According to experts, an infected child must avoid scratching the blisters and maintain cleanliness and hygiene. 
• Proper rest along with proper hydration is advised to recover from the viral disease.