A Review on Clinical Features of Tomato Flu Virus

Abstract

Tomato flu is an emerging viral illness reported mainly in children under five years of age in India, characterized by fever and distinctive red, tomato-like vesicular lesions. It is likely associated with enteroviral infections, particularly Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease. Transmission occurs through close contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated surfaces. The disease presents with nonspecific symptoms, making differential diagnosis important to distinguish it from infections such as dengue, chikungunya, and varicella. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, and management is supportive, including hydration, antipyretics, and isolation. Although generally self-limiting with a favorable prognosis, preventive measures such as hygiene practices and infection control are essential to limit spread. Further research is needed to better understand its etiology, improve diagnostic approaches, and develop targeted therapies.