Alarming rise in black fungal infection in India

NEW DELHI: After Sir Ganga Ram Hospital (SGRH) in New Delhi reported cases of rare black fungal infections in patients of COVID-19, hospitals from several other cities in the country have reported similar cases. Doctors have identified the disease as Mucormyosis, which is rare but not new, and affects people who are under medication or are suffering from some illness as their immunity remains in a compromised state.

The infection affects the sinuses or the lungs if the fungus enters through inhaling. It can also enter the skin through a cut, burn or any other type of skin injury, but is not contagious. If not detected early, it can kill half the patients, lead to loss of vision or jaw in others, and cause meningitis if it spreads to the brain. Symptoms of mucormycosis include one-sided facial swelling, nasal or sinus congestion, black lesions on nasal bridge or on upper inside of mouth, fever, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, blisters or ulcers, excessive redness, etc.

Dr Manish Munjal, senior surgeon at SGRH, said that the occurrence of COVID-19 triggered Mucormycosis with high morbidity and mortality is alarming. According to a report by India Today, the national capital has registered at least 44 cases of Mucormycosis, out of which nine patients have died. He added that early clinical suspicion on symptoms should prompt a biopsy and start of the antifungal therapy as early as possible for timely intervention can prevent complications like removal of jaws or disembowelment of the eye. Similar precautions as of COVID-19 like wearing masks and gloves can go a long way in protecting oneself from the fungal infection.