While no cases have yet been reported in the country, Thailand is closely monitoring the tomato flu situation in India, but does not regard the disease as a matter of domestic concern.

According to Disease Control Department Director-General Dr. Opart Karnkawinpong, tomato flu in India is mostly found in children under 5, as the disease is readily transmissible through physical contact. Small children are most susceptible as they tend to put things in their mouths.

He said that about 100 cases have been found in India so far, but no deaths.

The symptoms of tomato flu are similar to those of ordinary flu and include a fever and muscle pain, followed by red rashes on the skin and blisters, which resemble a small tomato, said Dr. Opart.

He also said that they look like the symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease in children, adding that, if there is a case here, similar methods to those used for treating hand, foot and mouth disease can be applied.

He then urged parents to take good care of their small children, especially regarding cleanliness, by frequently cleaning their toys.