Recent occurrences have brought Tomato Flu into the limelight, most notably in certain regions of Kerala where it has predominantly impacted children below five years of age. This health concern is sparking interest and generating inquiries about what exactly Tomato Flu pertains to.
About Tomato Flu
The term ‘Tomato Flu’ is derived from the distinct red, painful blisters that emerge on the patient’s body, increasing in size akin to a tomato. The causative agent of this ailment is Coxsackievirus A 16, a member of the Enterovirus family. The Enteroviruses, a significant group of ancient RNA viruses, exclusively affect humans. The illness is essentially an intestinal viral infection. In adults, its occurrence is rare due to their typically robust immune defences against the virus.
Transmission of Tomato Flu
One critical characteristic of Tomato Flu is its highly contagious nature. Children are particularly susceptible to exposure due to the frequent prevalence of viral infections in this age group and the ease of transmission through close contact. If not adequately controlled and prevented, such an outbreak could have severe implications, including potential spread to adult populations.
Symptoms
The primary symptoms of Tomato Flu mirror those of chikungunya, encompassing high fever, rashes, and intense joint pain. Further signs comprise fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, joint swelling, body aches, and typical influenza symptoms – mirroring indications of dengue.
Treatment
Tomato Flu is self-limiting and currently lacks a specific drug for treatment. Recommended handling of the condition echoes the approach used for chikungunya, dengue, and hand, foot, and mouth disease. Advised care includes patient isolation, rest, ample fluid intake, and hot water sponging to alleviate irritation and rashes.
Comparison with Zika virus transmission
Past examinations of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services have used comparisons like Zika virus disease to similar mosquito-borne diseases like dengue for questions. The 2017 UPSC exam included a question about Zika virus transmission, which is similar to dengue and even Tomato flu as it is also spread via Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species of mosquitoes. Information regarding sexual transmission and transmission from mother to child, including potentially severe foetal brain defects, were points of consideration. This exemplifies the interconnected knowledge required in such examinations.