BLACK FUNGUS- WHERE COVID LOST ITS TERROR

People are still not over of Covid-19 and now recently they are suffering from a new fungal infection known as the Black Fungus or Mucormycosis. People have been facing a deadly pandemic and are losing their close ones. Mucormycosis is now considered an epidemic in four states and 1 union territory.

What is Black Fungus or Mucormycosis?

Black Fungus is a fungal infection caused by the molds of mucor which is found in the soil, garden, decaying or rotten vegetables or fruits, etc. It’s a rare disease but is dangerous as it affects several parts of the human body. The molds of mucor are found in the environment naturally. Black fungus is not a contagious disease.

Who are at high risk of having Black Fungus?

The people who are at risk of acquiring Black Fungus include:

1. People who have underlying health conditions mainly diabetes or cancer.
2. People who recently have had an organ transplant.
3. People who have had or are recovering from covid and were on steroids.
4. Patients at oxygen support or at ventilators
5. People with low immunity.

Symptoms of Black Fungus

Mucormycosis has several symptoms depending on the body part where the fungus is in contact. The symptoms of different mucormycosis include:

1. Pulmonary(lungs) Mucormycosis

• Cough
• Chest Pain
• Fever
• Shortness of Breath

2. Gastrointestinal mucormycosis
   • Nausea
   • Vomiting
   • Abdominal Pain
   • Gastrointestinal Bleeding

3. Rhinocerebral (sinus and brain) mucormycosis
   • Fever
   • Headache
   • One-sided facial swelling
   • Black lesions
   • Sinus or nasal congestion
4. Cutaneous(skin) mucormycosis
   • Discoloration of the infected area to the black color
   • Blisters or ulcers on the infected area
   • Excessive redness, pain, swelling around a wound

Precautions to prevent yourself from Black Fungus

Several precautions one could take to protect themselves from Black fungus include:

1. Wearing face masks on a regular body so that a person doesn’t inhale the mucor molds. Also, washing or changing the masks regularly.
2. Maintaining personal hygiene.
3. Wearing full sleeve clothes, including shirts and pants with shoes.
4. Regulating the blood sugar levels.
5. Avoid gardening activities.

Treatment of Black Fungus

Depending on the health conditions, surgery may be required. Along with the surgery, antifungal medicines are provided.

If you or your family members are facing any symptoms of black fungus, then contact us at 0751-2920333 or 9285004119.

Visit us at Link Hospital,  Shivpuri Link Road, Gwalior(474001)