Several thousand coronavirus patients in India have contracted a deadly and aggressive fungal infection, compounding the country's troubles as it reels from the pandemic.
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The government has asked all states and union territories to notify mucormycosis or black fungus under the Epidemic Diseases Act. In a letter, Health Ministry Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal said it would be mandatory for all health facilities to report all suspected and confirmed cases of the fungal infection. In recent times a new challenge in the form of a fungal infection namely Mucormycosis has emerged and is reported from many states amongst Covid-19 patients especially those on steroid therapy and deranged sugar control. This fungal infection is leading to prolonged morbidity and mortality amongst Covid-19 patients, Agarwal said in his letter.Â
India was hit by a devastating Covid-19 wave in April this year. Now the country faces more challenges hampering its recovery: “black fungus” and the arrival of Cyclone Tauktae.
What is Black Fungus, Symptoms and Treatment Methods May 16, 2021, 14:55 IST
Now India is facing a new disease called mucormycosis or Black Fungus. The Black Fungus infects COVID patients only. It s caused by a group of molds called mucormycetes and often affects the sinuses, lungs, skin, and brain. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, the following conditions in Covid-19 patients increase the risk of Black Fungus infection.
Uncontrolled diabetes
Black Fungal Infection Symptoms
Eyelid loss and blurred vision have also been observed in some Black Fungus infections Covid.
Dark spots around the nose
Symptoms of pulmonary (lung) mucormycosis include: