The Uttarakhand Health Department has raised an alert following new detections of ‘tomato flu’ in various parts of the state, with the majority of cases reported to be from Sitarganj within Udham Singh Nagar district. So far, health officials confirmed that 28 cases were confirmed, leading to heightened vigilance in schools and settling clusters in the area.
The Viral illness, officially known as Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD), is a viral infection caused by the Coxsackievirus. HFMD usually occurs in infants and children, however, adults with weak immunity may become infected. The Health department has advised all block medical health officers to identify and report suspect patients immediately, ensuring that samples get to the district laboratories as soon as possible.
General physician Dr. Shivani, who works at BD Pandey District Hospital in Nainital, stated that an increasing number of children in the 5-10-year-old range are showing the symptoms in recent weeks. “The infection is spread through droplets while yawning or coughing, or from direct contact through a contaminated surface or person,” she said.
Initial symptoms usually include mild fever, sore throat, as well as painful red rashes or blisters appearing on the feet, hands, and mouth internally. Mouth ulcers often make it increasingly difficult for children to eat or drink, leading to fatigue and dehydration.
While doctors have clarified that tomato-borne illness, such as a flu, is not life-threatening, they cautioned that neglecting it could have consequences for the community. The best course of action is for parents to visit a doctor as soon as they see signs of rashes or fever. Children with flu symptoms should be placed in isolation to prevent further spreading of the virus, Dr. Shivani suggested.
Medical experts have advised that hygiene and preventive care must be strictly observed. Regular handwashing, sneezing into tissue or your shoulder, and daily cleaning children’s toys, clothes, and bedding must also be done consistently. Personal items, such as towels, bottles, or other utensils, must also not be shared.
Doctors emphasized the importance of nutrition as well. A strong immune system could help stave off the illness. The doctors recommended that parents provide their children with Vitamin C-rich foods such as amla, orange, lemon, and guava. Foods they felt would boost immunity such as turmeric milk, tulsi and giloy teas, and nutrient-rich vegetables and proteins were also advised.
