Amid rising Tomato Flu cases in India, know these 12 preventive measures to curb the spread

Since May 2022, Tomato Flu or Tomato Fever cases have been registered in India with the southern state of Kerala being the worst hit. The flu/fever usually infects children below 5 years old. The rising cases have prompted the government to order a strict vigil.  

Young children are at increased risk of exposure to tomato flu, and if not controlled and prevented, the transmission might lead to serious consequences by spreading in adults as well, warns a recent study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal. 

Following are 12 preventive measures are advised to keep in mind: 

1) Avoid immediate contact with the infected person 

2) Educate your child about the signs and symptoms and its side effects 

3) Tell your child not to hug or touch children having fever or rash symptoms 

4) You should encourage your children about hygiene maintenance and stopping thumb or finger sucking habits 

5) Encourage the child to use a handkerchief in case of running nose or coughing to avoid the spread of the disease 

6) Don’t scratch or rub the blister and wash every time you touch these blister 

7) Try to keep hydrated your child by motivating them to drink plenty of water, milk, or juice, whatever they prefer 

8) If your child develops symptoms of tomato fever, immediately isolate them from other children to inhibit disease progression. 

9) All utensils, clothes, and other utility items (for e.g. bedding) should be separated and sanitized regularly. 

10) Always use warm water to clean skin or for bathing the child 

11) Take a nutrition-rich, balanced diet to boost immunity 

12) It is essential to get enough rest and sleep to promote healing