New virus infects more than 80 children: 'Very contagious'
A new “very contagious” virus dubbed the “tomato flu” has emerged in India as the world continues to battle Covid-19 and soaring monkeypox infections.
The flu, otherwise known as “tomato fever”, has infected 82 children under the age of five since first being identified in the state of Kerala on May 6, according to the Lancet Respiratory Medicine Journal.
Another 26 kids aged under 10 are suspected to have fallen ill with the virus.
“The rare viral infection is in an endemic state and is considered non-life-threatening; however, because of the dreadful experience of the Covid-19 pandemic, the vigilant management is desirable to prevent further outbreaks,” the Lancet reports.
Although the “tomato flu” has Covid-like symptoms, including fever, fatigue and body aches, it is not related to the virus that has plagued the world for over two years.
No specific drug can treat the illness, which gained its name from the painful red blisters that erupt across the skin and gradually grow to the size of a tomato.
“These blisters resemble those seen with the monkeypox virus in young individuals,” the Lancet reports.
“As with other viral infections, further symptoms include, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, dehydration, swelling of joints, body aches, and common influenza-like symptoms, which are similar to those manifested in dengue.”
Children at increased risk of 'tomato flu'
The study suggests the “tomato flu” could be an “after-effect of chikungunya [virus] or dengue fever in children rather than a viral infection”.
“The virus could also be a new variant of the viral hand, foot, and mouth disease, a common infectious disease targeting mostly children aged 1-5 years and immunocompromised adults,” the Lancet reports.
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Children are at increased risk of exposure to the new virus because it is likely spread through close contact.
Those who are infected should isolate for five to seven days after symptoms first appear to prevent spreading it to others.
Treatments include rest, lots of fluids and hot water sponge baths to sooth the rashes.
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