This is a viral fever that is commonly seen in children under the age of five. It is called tomato fever because it causes red bumps the size of a tomato on the skin. The main causes are:
Viral infection: This is a contagious disease. Enteroviruses, which cause intestinal infections, are the main cause. It is also considered a variant of ‘hand, foot and mouth disease’ (HFMD), which causes blisters on the hands, feet and mouth.
Contact with infected people: The virus spreads through close contact with infected children and by sharing clothes and toys used by them. It spreads quickly in schools and parks where children play together.
Lack of hygiene: Not washing hands thoroughly after changing diapers or feeding children contributes to the spread of the virus. The virus can survive for a long time in dirty conditions.
Dehydration: Children with tomato fever may have difficulty eating and drinking due to severe fever and sores inside the mouth. This reduces the body’s hydration and complicates the disease.
Immune system: Children are more susceptible to this virus because their immune system is weaker than adults. Although the sores usually disappear within a week after the fever subsides, special attention should be paid to the health of children.