Tomato flu first appeared in India in May. According to the data disclosed, this disease was seen in children between the ages of 1 and 5 years. Tomato flu is seen on the hands, feet and mouths. The tomato flu, which has infected 82 children so far, has caused uneasiness all over the world. Tomato flu appears as red blisters on the body of children.
RARELY SEEN IN ADULTS
It is stated that the infectious disease is caused by intestinal viruses. The disease is rarely seen in adults, as their immune systems are usually strong enough to protect them from the virus. The infection is called ‘tomato flu’ because of the red, painful blisters that appear on the patient’s body and gradually reach the size of a tomato.
SYMPTOMS OF TOMATO FLU
Symptoms of the disease include high fever, body aches, joint swelling and fatigue. In this respect, it is very similar to the chikungunya virus. On the other hand, other symptoms reported in some patients are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, excessive fluid loss.
HOW IS TOMATO FLU TRANSMITTED?
Doctors say it is ‘highly contagious’ and fear it could infect the adult population if the current outbreak is not brought under control. The disease is contagious through saliva, mucus, feces, and fluid from blisters. Therefore, those affected should isolate themselves and not scratch. The exact cause of tomato flu is unknown. Children under the age of five are most affected. This is why the virus can spread rapidly in kindergartens and primary schools. Tomato flu is not considered a dangerous disease, but the symptoms can turn into a painful process, especially for young children. Symptoms usually disappear within 10 days.