Tomato fever is a rare viral disease that affects primarily young children. It causes red, round, and fluid-filled blisters on the skin that resemble tomatoes. It also causes fever, body pain, dehydration, and rashes. Tomato fever is a variation of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) caused by enteroviruses.
The exact cause of tomato fever is still unknown, although it is suspected to be a viral infection. Some experts believe it may be related to mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever or chikungunya. Others think it may be a mutation of the Coxsackie virus, which causes HFMD. Tomato fever is contagious and can spread through direct contact with the blisters or saliva of an infected person. It may also spread through contaminated objects or surfaces. Children under five years are more vulnerable to tomato fever because they have weaker immune systems. Having comprehensive health insurance can provide financial support in managing unexpected healthcare costs related to viral infections like this one.
Let's understand some of the most common symptoms of this disease.
What are the Symptoms of Tomato Fever?
The symptoms of tomato fever usually appear within three to six days after exposure to the virus. The main symptoms include:
- High fever
- Fatigue and severe body pain
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration (low water content in the body)
- Red rashes all over the body, especially on the palms, soles, buttocks, and genitals
- Blisters that are round, fluid-filled, and look like tomatoes. They may burst and form crusts or scabs.
- Joint swelling and inflammation
- Diarrhoea or vomiting
- Irritation in the mouth or throat
The tomato flu symptoms may last for about ten days and then resolve on their own. However, some complications may arise in rare cases, such as:
- Dehydration, which may lead to shock or kidney failure
- Bacterial infection of the skin or blisters that may cause cellulitis or sepsis
- Meningitis or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain or spinal cord), which may cause seizures, confusion, or coma.
- Myocarditis or pericarditis (inflammation of the heart or its lining) that may cause chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat
Tomato fever is diagnosed based on the clinical signs and symptoms of the patient. The doctor may also take a swab from the blister or throat of the patient and send it to a laboratory for testing. The laboratory may use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect the presence of the virus in the sample.
There is no such particular treatment for tomato fever, as it is a self-limiting viral infection.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.
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