Tomato flu, dubbed as hand foot and mouth disease or HFMD is a viral disease-causing blister, rashes, pain, dehydration, and severe fever in children below the age of five. The flu outbreak reported in Kerala districts such as Aryankavu, Anchal, and Needuvathur has caused several states to step up their vigilance measures.

Karnataka Health Minister Dr. K Sudhakar clarified that the spreading of flu is not related to the Covid infection. Tomato flu and Covid 19 are two completely different diseases. The major symptom of Tomato flu is large blisters similar to red tomatoes while the other symptoms are much in tune with the symptoms of chikungunya. The minister addressed the state saying that there is no need to panic and authorities had also been alerted to control and manage any cases if detected. He also added that the tomato flu is endemic to Kerala. 

Several Kannada districts such as Mangaluru, Udupi, Kodagu, Chamarajanagar, and Mysuru have been directed to keep a vigil on daily travelers and monitor children for any symptoms in OPDs of healthcare facilities.

Source: ET Healthworld