Thiruvananthapuram: An outbreak of tomato fever in Kerala has forced authorities to urge caution. The disease is spreading among children in several districts of the State.
This viral disease mostly affects children under the age of five. It is not a life-threatening disease, but can rarely cause brain fever. Hence, doctors recommend timely treatment for the illness.
Symptoms
Along with fever, fatigue and joint pain, red-coloured blisters and rashes appear on the palm, foot, behind the knees, and sores inside the mouth. The fever could also cause stomach ache, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Also it could lead to issues caused due to poor blood circulation to the limbs.
Treatment and care
Do not self-medicate. Consult a doctor. Usually, the disease would heal within 7 to 10 days.
Ensure cleanliness and hygiene of the infected children. Avoid scratching the blisters on the body. Drink lots of water to prevent dehydration. Taking adequate rest is also essential.
Disease spread
The disease is transmitted directly from the infected person to others. The virus can spread to another person through nasal mucus, saliva, or fluid from the blisters on the skin.
Preventive measures
Always wash hands with soap before having food, and after going to the toilet.
Cover face while sneezing or coughing, and properly wash hands later.
Those taking care of the infected children should also wash their hands with soap before and after touching them.
Don’t let the infected person to mingle with other children.
Other people, especially children, should not be allowed to use the infected person’s clothes, toys or other articles.
