Tomato fever, also called tomato flu, is a viral illness that’s been making news, especially in India. It got attention in 2022 when it spread among kids in Kerala, causing worry due to its red, tomato-like blisters. Many search for “tomato fever” to understand what it is and how to handle it. Experts now believe it’s not a new virus but a form of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), caused by Coxsackievirus A16. It mostly affects kids under five, spreading through close contact. While it’s not life-threatening, it can be uncomfortable, and parents need to know how to manage it. This guide explains what tomato fever is, its symptoms, treatments, and ways to prevent it. Let’s dive in to learn how to keep kids safe and ease worries about this contagious illness.
What Is Tomato Fever?
Tomato fever is a viral illness first noticed in Kerala, India, on May 6, 2022. It’s called tomato fever because of the red, round blisters it causes, which look like small tomatoes. Experts link it to hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), caused by Coxsackievirus A16, not a new virus. It mainly affects kids aged one to nine, spreading through touch, coughing, or shared items. The illness is self-limiting, meaning it usually goes away in 7-10 days without serious issues. It’s not related to COVID-19, despite similar symptoms like fever. By July 2022, over 82 cases were reported in Kerala, with some spread to Tamil Nadu and other states. Parents and schools need to stay alert to control its spread, especially in young kids.
History of Tomato Fever
Tomato fever was first reported in Kerala’s Kollam district in May 2022. It sparked concern as people feared a new virus after COVID-19. Early theories suggested it might be linked to dengue or chikungunya, but tests showed it’s likely HFMD caused by Coxsackievirus A16. The name “tomato fever” came from its unique red blisters. It spread to Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Haryana, prompting health alerts. The British Medical Journal and other sources confirmed it’s not a novel virus but a variant of a known illness.
Why It’s Confused with Other Diseases
Tomato fever’s symptoms, like fever, rashes, and joint pain, mimic chikungunya, dengue, or even monkeypox. This caused early confusion, with some thinking it was a new virus. Tests ruled out COVID-19 and mosquito-borne diseases. Its blisters resemble monkeypox, but HFMD’s pattern in kids helped identify it. Doctors use blood tests to rule out other viruses like herpes or zika, confirming Coxsackievirus as the cause. This confusion highlights the need for proper diagnosis.
Symptoms of Tomato Fever
Tomato fever starts with flu-like signs that worry parents. Kids get high fever, feel tired, and have body aches. Red, painful blisters appear on hands, feet, and mouth, sometimes growing to tomato size. Other signs include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Some kids have joint swelling or a runny nose. In rare cases, blisters may appear on the buttocks or change hand and leg color. The illness is uncomfortable but usually mild, resolving in a week or two. If symptoms worsen or last longer, see a doctor to rule out complications or other diseases like dengue. Knowing these signs helps parents act fast to keep kids comfortable and safe.
Common Signs in Kids
Kids with tomato fever often have high fever, tiredness, and loss of appetite. Red blisters form on palms, soles, and inside the mouth, causing pain when eating or drinking. Some kids get stomach cramps, nausea, or diarrhea. The blisters are red, fluid-filled, and itchy, leading to skin irritation. These signs usually show up 3-6 days after exposure and fade in 7-10 days. Watch for dehydration, as kids may avoid drinking due to mouth sores.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if a child’s fever stays high for over three days, blisters worsen, or they show signs of dehydration, like dry mouth or less urine. Severe joint pain, swelling, or refusal to eat also need attention. Tests may be done to rule out dengue, chikungunya, or herpes. Early care prevents complications, though serious issues are rare. If a child seems very weak or has trouble breathing, seek help right away.
How Tomato Fever Spreads
Tomato fever spreads easily, especially among young kids in schools or daycare. It passes through close contact, like touching an infected child’s hands or sharing toys. Coughing or sneezing can spread the virus through the air. It can also spread via surfaces or items touched by an infected person, like utensils or clothes. Kids under five are most at risk because they often play closely and may not follow hygiene rules. The virus is contagious even if someone has no symptoms. In 2022, it spread from Kerala to nearby states, showing how fast it moves in close-knit groups. Good hygiene and isolation are key to stopping its spread.
How It Spreads in Schools
In schools or anganwadis, tomato fever spreads when kids share toys, food, or touch each other. Coughing or sneezing in close spaces like classrooms helps the virus move. Poor handwashing makes it worse. In Kerala, health teams checked schools to catch cases early. Keeping infected kids home for 5-7 days stops the spread. Cleaning toys and desks daily also helps keep the virus under control.
Role of Hygiene
Good hygiene stops tomato fever from spreading. Wash kids’ hands often with soap, especially after playing or eating. Clean shared items like toys or tables with sanitizer. Don’t let kids share food or drinks. Bathing with warm water soothes rashes and keeps skin clean. Teach kids to cover their mouth when coughing. These simple steps lower the chance of passing the virus to others.
Treatment for Tomato Fever
Tomato fever has no specific medicine since it’s a viral illness that usually clears up on its own in 7-10 days. Treatment focuses on easing symptoms to keep kids comfortable. Give paracetamol for fever and body aches, as advised by a doctor. Warm water sponges help soothe itchy rashes. Use calamine lotion for skin irritation and oral gels for mouth sores. Keep kids hydrated with water or boiled drinks to fight dehydration. Rest and healthy food help recovery. Isolate infected kids to prevent spreading. Always check with a doctor for proper care, especially if symptoms don’t improve. This approach keeps kids safe while they heal naturally.
Home Remedies
At home, give kids plenty of water or oral rehydration solutions to prevent dehydration. Use a warm water sponge to ease rash discomfort. Apply calamine lotion to reduce itching. For mouth sores, try warm saline gargles to soothe pain. Avoid spicy or salty foods to prevent mouth irritation. Rest is key, so keep kids calm and comfortable. These remedies help manage symptoms safely.
Medical Care
Doctors may suggest paracetamol for fever and pain, but avoid aspirin in kids. If dehydration is severe, hospital IV fluids might be needed. Tests like blood or PCR checks rule out other viruses. In rare cases, complications like brain inflammation can occur, needing hospital care. Follow the doctor’s advice, and don’t scratch blisters to avoid infection. Most kids recover fully with basic care.
Preventing Tomato Fever
Preventing tomato fever starts with good habits. Keep kids with symptoms home for 5-7 days to stop the spread. Wash hands often and clean shared items like toys or clothes. Don’t let kids share food or drinks. In schools, check kids for rashes or fever daily. Use sanitized water for drinking and bathing. Teach kids to avoid touching blisters. Health officials in Kerala set up border checks to monitor cases, showing how important early action is. These steps are simple but effective in keeping tomato fever from spreading, especially among young kids.
Hygiene Tips for Parents
Parents should wash kids’ hands with soap before meals and after play. Clean toys, bottles, and surfaces daily with sanitizer. Use boiled water for drinking to avoid germs. Bathe kids in warm water to soothe skin and keep it clean. Don’t let infected kids share beds or towels. These habits lower the risk of tomato fever spreading in homes or schools.
School and Community Measures
Schools should check kids daily for fever or rashes. Isolate sick kids and inform parents. Clean classrooms and playgrounds regularly. Health teams in Kerala used mobile units to screen kids, which helped control the 2022 outbreak. Communities can hold awareness talks to teach parents about hygiene. Avoiding crowded play areas during outbreaks also helps keep tomato fever in check.
