Kerala Tomato Flu Outbreak

Kerala has been struck by another viral disease known as the Tomato Flu. It is a rare viral disease due to which blisters shaped like tomatoes are formed. As of 11th May 2022, around 80 children of the state who are under the age of five have already been affected.

This disease has been detected in which district of Kerala?

All the 80 cases in Kerala have been detected from the Kollam district. But since then, some cases of tomato flu have been detected in the Anchal, Neduvathur, and Aryankavu districts. Due to this outbreak, the neighbouring states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have increased their border surveillance.

What is the Tomato Flu?

This is a flu that causes red blisters and rashes on the body of the infected child. They are mostly generally red in colour and hence it is known as Tomato Fever or Tomato Flu. Several health experts have said that this viral disease is most probably an after-effect of dengue fever or chikungunya.

What are the symptoms of this disease?

The main symptoms of this disease include:

  • Large blisters that are red in colour and are tomato sized
  • Body ache
  • High fever
  • Swelling of joints.
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Fatigue
  • Vomiting
  • Discolouration of knees, hands, and buttocks.

What is the treatment for Tomato Flu?

This disease has no specific treatment. This disease is also highly contagious. Doctors have also suggested that the infected children must not scratch the blisters that have been caused by the flu. Also, patients infected with this disease must keep themselves hydrated as well as maintain proper sanitation and hygiene. Also, to stop this disease from spreading, one must avoid close contact with the person infected with this disease.


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