What is tomato flu?
Tomato flu is a disease commonly caused by the Coxsackie virus. Doctors think "tomato flu" is simply a new name for an existing disease called "hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD)". It mostly affects children under ten years of age. So, what does this disease have to do with tomatoes? Well, nothing. Patients with this disease develop red blisters all over their bodies. These blisters grow to the size of tomatoes. That's why people started calling it "tomato flu" (sorry, tomatoes!).
Only Kerala, Odisha, Haryana, and Tamil Nadu have reported cases of tomato flu.
What are the symptoms of HFMD?
The symptoms of HFMD include blisters all over the body, fever, rashes, joint pains, etc. Some people may also get symptoms like feeling tired, vomiting, etc. Since viruses affect everyone differently, symptoms can change from person to person.
How does the HFMD spread?
HFMD spreads when an infected person coughs and sneezes. Close contact with an infected person, like hugging, sharing clothes, etc. can also spread the disease. That’s why it's best to keep yourself secluded until you get better. HMFD can also spread by touching infected surfaces and then touching your eyes, mouth, or nose.
What is the treatment for HFMD?
There is no specific treatment for HFMD. Don’t worry though. HFMD gets better on its own in 7-10 days. Until it gets better, medicines can be taken to control symptoms.
How do I keep safe from HFMD?
There is no vaccine for HFMD yet. But, you can avoid HFMD by washing your hands regularly, not touching your eyes, mouth, or nose unnecessarily, and avoiding contact with people who are sick. Doing all this will be enough to protect you from HFMD. Don’t panic if you think you have the tomato flu. Tell your teacher or parent and they will give you medicines to make you feel better. Don’t forget to share this knowledge with your friends.
