Symptoms Tomato Fever: Over 80 children detected with Tomato Fever in Kerala-Know Symptoms, Causes and Prevention

Symptoms Tomato Fever: At least 82 children have been detected with Tomato Fever in Kerala's Kollam city, as per local media. All confirmed cases are children below five years and they have been reported from local government hospitals. Tomato fever also known as Tomato flu is a rare kind of viral infection that is affecting mostly children below the age of 5.

As a precautionary measure, the anganwadi centres in the areas from where the cases have been reported have been reported- Aryankavu, Anchal and Neduvathur. The state health department is monitoring the situation closely and has taken preventive measures in these areas.

The total number of Tomato Fever cases could be even higher in the state if private hospitals are also included in the count, as the current numbers only take into account government hospitals.

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What is Tomato Fever?

Tomato fever is an unidentified fever that has been detected in the state of Kerala. It is still being debated on whether Tomato Fever is a viral fever or an aftereffect of chikungunya or dengue fever.

Symptoms of Tomato Fever

The symptoms of Tomato Fever mainly include red rashes, almost the size of tomatoes, skin irritation and signs of dehydration on the tongue.

Following are detailed list of Tomato Fever Symptoms-

-High fever

-Body aches

-Joint swelling

-Fatigue

-Rashes of the size of tomatoes

-Irritation in the mouth

-Discolouration of the hands, knees, buttocks

-Some patients also claimed that worms come out of the boils that develop on the rashes.

Tomato Fever Causes

The health officials are still investigating the main causes of Tomato Fever. 

Tomato Fever Prevention & Treatment

Tomato Fever is not severe and can be treated but proper care needs to be given to the infected children. 

Following are Tomato Fever preventive measures:

• Parents should immediately consult a nearby doctor if their child shows any of the above symptoms.
• The infected children are advised to stay hydrated by drinking a lot of boiled water.
• Do not scratch the blisters or rashes.
• Maintain proper cleanliness and hygiene. 
• Take bath using warm water. 
• Avoid close contact with the infected person.
• Take proper rest to avoid the long-lasting effects of the fever. 

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