A new virus is starting to spread through India as scientists have registered their concerns over the danger involved with it.
'Tomato flu' has been diagnosed in 82 children aged under five in Kerala, India, latest data from the Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal has shown.
The data is up to July 26, but cases have now been reported in Tamil Nadu state and in Odisha in the east.
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Cases have been found in kids up to the age of nine, but no adults have yet been diagnosed with tomato flu.
"The rare viral infection is in an endemic state and is considered non-life-threatening; however, because of the dreadful experience of the Covid-19 pandemic, vigilant management is desirable to prevent further outbreaks," the Lancet article said.
At the moment, the virus is currently being contained to India but scientists are believed to be tracking its spread in case it manages to enter other countries.
But should Ireland be concerned?
Tomato flu symptoms
It has been referred to as tomato flu because of the painful red blisters it produces on the body, and it is very contagious.
However, at the moment doctors are somewhat stumped as tomato flu symptoms are very similar to those of Covid and dengue fever - both of which are highly prevalent in India.
Who is most at risk?
Kids are particularly vulnerable because it spreads easily through close contact, such as via nappies, touching unclean surfaces or putting things in mouths.
Immunocompromised adults are also urged to be wary of the virus.
The article in the medical journal continues: "The virus could also be a new variant of the viral hand, foot and mouth disease, a common infectious disease targeting mostly children aged one to five years and immunocompromised adults, and some case studies have even shown hand, foot and mouth disease in immunocompetent adults."
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