Abstract

TOMATO FLU: DECODING THE MYTHS, MANAGING THE REALITY, AND SAFEGUARDING PUBLIC HEALTH

Dr. Rohit Singh Deo*, Dr. Agnes Sara and Dr. Rajesh Kumar Singh

ABSTRACT

Tomato flu, thought to be caused by the Coxsackievirus, first appeared in India in May 2021 and quickly spread throughout the world, endangering culinary customs as well as public health. It mostly affects children under ten years old, and its contagious nature is emphasized by its variety of symptoms and characteristic tomato-like blisters. The public's demand for a reaction based on true facts has increased due to the widespread confusion caused by false information. Vigilance, community spirit, isolation, environmental disinfection, and hand hygiene are all part of a complete defence strategy that emphasizes our shared obligation to stop the spread. Though there isn't a precise therapy, the resources that are currently accessible provide comfort and support; the best defence against this viral onslaught, though, is prevention. The ongoing pandemic highlights how urgently international cooperation, stepped-up research, and proactive preparedness measures are needed to protect culinary traditions and public health globally. The extensive effects of the tomato flu have created a number of obstacles that require a united front, which is why this essay supports interdisciplinary endeavours.

Keywords: Tomato flu; Coxsackievirus; Global spread; Public health; Culinary traditions; Contagious disease.