Its Symptoms, Causes, Prevention & Treatment

Aarav’s day started out like any other until he got home from school feeling weak, feverish, and with strange red spots on his hands and feet. His mum thought it might be an infection or a rash. By morning, however, those patches had become round, swelling blisters that looked like tomatoes. He refused to touch his favourite food, his body hurt, and his lips were cracked. That’s when the quiet sighs started: Tomato Flu.

Unusual name, huh? Is this something serious? How did it start, and how did it spread so fast?

New illnesses often raise more questions than answers. And the greatest way to be safe when something this strange happens is to be informed. Are you curious about how it spreads, what symptoms to watch out for, and how to keep your loved ones safe? Let’s examine each of them in the article that follows.

Symptoms of Tomato Fever

Although tomato fever (also known as tomato flu) may sound strange, it is a serious illness that affects children. The name stems from the most noticeable symptom: red, tomato-like blisters that appear on the skin, particularly on the hands, feet, and around the mouth. The most noticeable sign is these painful burns.

However, the symptoms can be a bit vague until those blisters show up. High temperature, bodily pains, and joint discomfort are characteristic flu symptoms. This could mean that a child is tired, grumpy, or just not acting like themselves. Next follow the digestive issues: cramping in the abdomen, diarrhoea, vomiting, and nausea are all typical and exhausting.

Also, others may have rashes, coughs, or runny noses that could be mistaken for a common cold or even hand, foot, and oral illness. If you don’t know what to look for, it’s easy to miss. But once the blisters appear, everything falls into place. The good news is that, despite the frightening symptoms, tomato fever typically goes away on its own with lots of rest, fluids, and care.

Causes of Tomato Flu

So, what is the cause of tomato flu? Although research on that aspect is ongoing, it is probably infectious.

Doctors believe it to be either a reaction to viral diseases like dengue or chikungunya or a kind of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). In any case, children under five are more likely to have it, however slightly older children may also have it rarely.

One thing is for sure: it spreads quickly.

It is primarily through direct contact. It can spread by intimate playtime, sharing toys, or contact with contaminated surfaces. Avoid close quarters, particularly in educational or childcare environments, and you won’t have to worry about mosquitoes or contaminated food.

Tomato flu is not harmful, but the underlying reason is still being researched. However, because it is communicable, cleanliness is essential. Sanitise toys, wash hands, and check for symptoms in children. Keep them at home. A little precaution goes a long way.

Is Tomato Flu Contagious?

Indeed, tomato flu can spread quickly, especially among small children. It is a serious risk in crowded areas like schools or daycare centres since it spreads rapidly through personal contact. If one child gets it, the odds are that others will too, unless precautions are done quickly. It’s not life-threatening, but because it spreads so quickly, it’s important to isolate people as soon as possible.

How is Tomato Flu Diagnosed?

As of yet, there is no specific laboratory test for tomato flu. Usually, the red, blister-like spots that are the most common sign are enough to make a diagnosis. Doctors also consider recent history, including flu-like symptoms, contact with people who are ill, or similar events in the vicinity. Before diagnosing tomato flu, medical professionals frequently rule out other viral diseases like dengue or HFMD because the symptoms are similar.

How Does it Spread?

Close personal contact, such as sharing toys, hugs, sneezes, or simply touching the same surfaces, can transmit tomato flu. Usually, kids who aren’t very good at keeping themselves clean get it. Once the virus enters the system of one child, it spreads quickly among the group because it resides on the skin and in bodily fluids. Hygiene and prompt isolation are key to breaking the chain.

What is the Treatment for Tomato Fever?

Although there isn’t a specific antiviral treatment for tomato fever, the majority of cases are minor and resolve on their own. The focus is on symptom relief, which includes plenty of rest, fluids, and paracetamol for fever and pain. Until the child is completely recovered, parents are usually urged to keep them secluded, maintain good cleanliness, and refrain from returning them to school. Blisters should never be scratched, and if symptoms increase, see a doctor immediately.

What to do When Your Child Gets Infected?

Simple things like good cleanliness and extra care can help stop problems before they happen. Encourage children to wash their hands regularly, especially after playing or using the restroom. Refrain from sharing utensils, clothing, or toys with children who are infected. Limit close contact and keep children at home if they exhibit any early symptoms if there is an outbreak in the area. Cleaning surfaces at home or at school on a regular basis also reduces the risk. Above all, pay attention to the blisters. Early intervention prevents the spread.

What Should You Do If Your Child Contracts an Infection?

First, don’t freak out. Most cases are mild and easy to take care of at home. Isolation is crucial; keep your child away from other people, especially classmates or siblings. If there’s a fever or ache, give plenty of liquids, make sure they get enough sleep, and take paracetamol. Don’t pop or scratch the blisters; instead, keep them clean and uncovered. See a doctor immediately if symptoms worsen or dehydration sets in. With a little patience and care, children can usually get back on their feet within a week.

Does Tomato Flu have anything to do with COVID-19?

No, there is no link between COVID-19 and tomato flu. They are caused by different viruses and spread in varying manners. Despite the fact that both are communicable, tomato flu primarily affects children and is most similar to hand, foot, and mouth illness. Nevertheless, the pandemic has increased our awareness, which is why even new or uncommon infections are now promptly addressed.

Does Health Insurance Cover Tomato Fever?

Most typical health insurance policies, particularly those that cover viral infections or hospitalisation, should include coverage for tomato flu treatment. If hospitalisation or medical consultation is required, it will most likely be covered. To be sure, though, it’s always best to check the facts of your specific insurance plan or speak with your provider.

To Sum Up

Despite its odd name, tomato flu is a real and highly contagious virus that primarily affects kids. Its peculiarity is the red, blister-like rashes, which are accompanied by a high body temperature, fatigue, and stomach issues. Although it normally goes away on its own, prompt attention and good hygiene can prevent its spread. However, being aware of what to look for and what to do can make a big difference in your child’s safety and comfort.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition. Coverage for tomato fever-related treatment may vary by policy and so, refer to your health insurance plan or speak to advisors for specific details.

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