Medical experts recommend that you monitor a virus called “New Viral” and be alert for any changes. “tomato flu,”Just as a fourth COVID-19 variant is emerging, monkeypox continues its spread.
Also known as “tomato flu” or “tomato fever,” the highly contagious virus was first identified in India on May 6, according to a recently released study bythe Lancet Respiratory Medicine Journal. It has thus far infected 82 children under the age of 5.
Though it is not life-threatening, the study authors urged caution in dealing with the virus “because of the dreadful experience of the COVID-19 pandemic” and said “vigilant management is desirable to prevent further outbreaks.”
The malady got its name for red blisters that emerge on the body. They can gradually grow to the size of tomato, the journal said. The lesions can be very sore and can cause extreme joint pain.
The virus may be a variant of hand, foot and mouth disease, a common affliction in children under 5 caused by Coxsackie viruses that are transmitted by contact with feces, contaminated objects and exposure to bodily fluids.
Young children are most affected because of their tendency to put things in their mouths.
“Given the similarities to hand, foot and mouth disease, if the outbreak of tomato flu in children is not controlled and prevented, transmission might lead to serious consequences by spreading in adults as well,”The study concluded.
According to the study, other symptoms than blisters include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dehydration, and fever.
Treatment is largely the same as for influenza — bed-rest and large quantities of fluids to prevent dehydration. The study found that patients are typically kept isolated for between five and seven days.