Black fungus is a commonly used term for a disease called Mucormycosis. This is an air-borne disease that is caused by moulds of Mucormycetes. Recent cases of patients suffering from COVID-19 have increasingly shown symptoms of Black Fungus in India which has created a sudden panic for the nation.
This fungal infection does not have any intrinsic effect on normal people but can be life-threatening for immunocompromised and diabetic patients. In India, with the commencement of the second wave of COVID-19, black fungus has become aggressively invasive.
The exponential rate at which black fungus cases are rising in India is alarming for authorities. Thus, it has been officially declared as a pandemic in some states of the country.
Concerns Related to Black Fungus
Amidst the global covid surge, diabetologists have shown concerns that people suffering from diabetes mellitus are at high risk of getting infected by mucormycosis. So, people should always keep their sugar levels in check.
Steroids used in the treatment of Covid-19 immunises the body to fight the virus but increases the body’s glucose levels. Doctors advise people with diabetes, cancer and other comorbidities to keep their glucose levels in check because the ICMR deems them as the most susceptible to the disease.
If an individual’s sinus is exposed to mucormycosis, it is most likely going to affect the individual’s lungs and brain functioning. This can prove fatal.
Symptoms of Black Fungus
- Chest pain and respiratory issues
- Black or bloody nasal discharge.
- Blurred eyesight and pain near the eye
- Discolouration around the nose
- Numbness and pain in the facial area.
Although black fungus is not a new phenomenon like the COVID-19 virus and hasn’t been researched upon as extensively as the former, experts advise people to stay home and stay safe.
Manisha Ray
A connoisseur of all things wonderful in life, Manisha is a literature major at Delhi University. She is a keen observer and a quiet thinker.