Tomato fever in India: what it is, what are its symptoms, how it spreads and who suffers · Maldita.es

On the left, images of the eruptions caused by this disease on the feet (CDC) and arms (Crook da Oger/Wikimedia) Map of India with the state of Kerala in red on the right.

In recent weeks, the media (see examples 1, Two Y 3) reports of an illness reverberated in the state Keralato the south India: Tomato fever or tomato fever.

These contents are based on a The letter was published in the scientific journal Lancet Respiratory MedicineWhere it is reported Tomato fever is spreading in India. It is a type of scientific publication that does not have the evidence of a study or meta-analysis – more complete, but it is used to send communications to the scientific community or to discuss a topic of interest.

The authors of this letter, in particular, state: More than 82 girls and boys under the age of five The disease was reported between May and July 2022 in hospitals in Kerala. 26 cases In the state Odisha Y Health warnings (No registered cases) in the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. We tell you what is known about this disease.

What is Tomato Fever and what is the pathogen that causes it?

Letters from which this information arises, tomato fever or influenza is a rare infection caused by a virus in this part of the world, which is not considered serious or dangerous.

The authors of this article suggest that this disease may be Consequences of the virus Chikungunya Or Dengue (two viral infections transmitted by mosquito bites) or a new variant Hand, foot and mouth disease virus o (HFMD, abbreviation in English), a common pathogen that affects children under 5 years of age and adults with weakened immune systems. 7 to 10 days without complications. In fact, no serious cases or deaths related to this outbreak have been reported.

Sarah Pitt, Professor of Microbiology As detailed in The Conversion at the University of Brighton, these infections can often be hand, foot and mouth disease. This information is based on tests carried out on two children who had traveled from Kerala from the United Kingdom with symptoms typical of the disease. found in them Virus Coxsackie A16That It is capable of causing disease. A Newspaper article published in BMJ Also describes This disease is not caused by a pathogen New And it’s a variant of HFMD.

What are the symptoms of tomato fever and why does it get this name?

Symptoms of this disease are similar to other flu-like processes: fever, fatigue, muscle and joint pain. Added to this are some A characteristic red rash that may develop About the size of a tomato, hence its name. These rashes appear on the palms, soles, buttocks, legs and arms.

No A specific treatment for this disease There is no vaccine to prevent it, highlight the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Instead, medicines are given to help manage the symptoms, mainly paracetamol for fever and pain. It is recommended to rest, avoid touching the blisters and drink enough water.

Because hydration is key This disease can cause mouth ulcers It does that Swallowing is uncomfortable or painfulSo children with this infection do not want to drink the water they need.

How is tomato flu spread and who does it affect?

As with other common childhood infections, This disease is highly contagiousAlthough we must remember that it is not serious or dangerous, it is recommended that those affected by the disease be isolated from schools and health centers during the illness.

The The most common means of exchange secretions from the nose and throat (saliva, phlegm or phlegm), fluid from the rashes it produces, and feces from victims; described the CDC. It is also spread by contact with contaminated objects and surfaces, such as keys, toys or clothing.

Most people with HSMD are children under the age of 10 and adults with weakened immune systems. In the Indian outbreak, the described cases have been in boys and girls aged five and under.