An update on Tomato Flu Virus: A Mini-review

Abstract: This article aims to highlight the most recent information on the “tomato flu” epidemic in India. A new disease has sprung out in several areas of India. The illness had a rash that was predominantly seen in children under the age of five and was highly infectious. It was known as “tomato flu” because the rash was excruciatingly painful, and the blisters were the size of tiny tomatoes. None of the afflicted children experienced problems that would have resulted in death. The focus of the therapy was primarily symptomatic, supportive care along with isolation and sustaining hygiene standards. The RNA virus Coxsackievirus A16, a member of the Picornaviridae family, was shown to be the cause of this disease. A detailed literature review was performed on the epidemiology, aetiology, evolution, transmission, outbreak, preventive measures and management and treatment of tomato flu. The leading prevention is preventing infected children and infants from sharing clothes, food, and toys. Few drugs are used to prevent fever, but no antiviral drugs or vaccines are available to prevent tomato fever. We came to the conclusion that a novel form of Coxsackievirus A16 may be responsible for the current pandemic of this disease in India.