Page 92 - COVID Newsletter 11 June

5. Related to Black Fungus and COVID-19 Disease
Q. What is Black Fungus?
A. Black fungus, also known as MUCORMYCOSIS, is a rare fungal infection. It is called “black” because of the colour of the fungal growth. It is caused by exposure to mucor mould found in soil, manure, and rotten/decaying fruits and vegetables. It is ubiquitous and even present
in the nose/mucosa of healthy individuals. This disease usually affects the sinuses, eye orbit, and brain. That is why it is also called “rhino-orbital-cerebral” mucormycosis. It may be life- threatening in immunocompromised individuals (cancer patients, HIV/AIDS) and people with uncontrolled diabetes.
Q. What are the risk factors for acquiring Black Fungus infection? A. Risk Factors are:
• Uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus
• Treated for COVID-19 with corticosteroids
• Treated for COVID-19 with immunomodulators
• Treated for COVID-19 with mechanical ventilation
• Prolonged oxygen therapy
• Prolonged ICU stay
• Immunocompromised state
Q. Why the sudden increase in Black Fungus cases?
A. It may be triggered by extensive use of steroids, which is a life-saving treatment for moderate to severe COVID-19 infection. Steroids lower the immunity and cause a sudden up- shooting of blood sugar levels in diabetes and non-diabetic patients. For patients on humidified oxygen, care should be taken to make sure there is no water leak to prevent the growth of the fungus.
Q. How serious is Black Fungus?
A. Black fungus infection causes a vision-threatening and life-threatening condition.
Q. Do all COVID-19 patients need to be worried about Black Fungus infection? A. No. As discussed, high-risk patients need to be alert. Also, during COVID-19 recovery,
everyone should watch out for early signs and symptoms.
Q. What are the precautions one can take to avoid this disease? A. Following precautions one can take:
• Boost immune system with diet, hydration and exercise.
• Rational use of steroids by follow guidelines.
• Strict Blood sugar monitoring and control in all patients who are on steroids.
VOL. IV ISSUE 4
VIGYAN PRASAR 88
NATION’S S&T EFFORTS AGAINST COVID-19