Tomato flu in India
In India, cases have been detected in children aged 1 to 5 years and in some immunocompromised adults.
For children with these symptoms, doctors perform molecular and serological tests to diagnose dengue, chikungunya, Zika virus, varicella-zoster virus, and herpes; Once these viral infections have been ruled out, tomato virus contraction confirmed.
The rare viral infection caused by the virus is in an endemic state and is considered not life-threatening. However, vigilant management is desirable to prevent further outbreaks, warns the British weekly of medicine.
To date, apart from Kerala, Tamilnadu and Odisha, no other region in India has been affected by the virus.
Among the care that should be taken for someone who has tomato flu are:
- Isolation
- Rest
- many liquids
- A sponge of hot water to relieve irritation and rashes
- Paracetamol supportive therapy for fever and body aches