Health: COVID-19 induced black fungus or mucormycosis are on the rise among the COVID survivors. Health officials in Chhattisgarh have reported more than 14 such cases in the past 10 days.
Taking into cognizance the severity of the infection, CM Bhupesh Baghel had directed all medical facilities to stock up necessary medication for the treatment.
Dr Rakesh Gupta, Chairman, Chhattisgarh Hospital Board, an ENT has reported treating four patients of the fungal infection. Dr Gupta stated,” the nose, eyes, and mouth were mainly affected in such patients.” Raipur AIIMS and Sector 9 Hospital in Bhilai have also reported the detection of the post covid infection. As per Dr Gupta, Posaconazole and Amphotericin-B injections are the means of treatment for such patients.
The Department of Food and Drug Administration of the State Government authorized the use of these medications. in a letter to the deputy operators, it said,” Regular supply of these medicines is necessary. In such a case, report the quantity available daily to all the stockists and dealers in your area. The pharmacies also have to report it.” Raipur only possessed 700 vials of those. The Health authorities have contacted the manufacturers for more stock. Sources reveal a post-COVID Care OPD is also established by the government.
What is Black Fungus?
Mucormycosis is a serious fungal infection observed in people with low immunity as well as those suffering from comorbidities. As the use of steroids in COVID patients suppresses the immunity of the patient, the fungus takes over the suppressed body. It is mainly found on wet surfaces and enters the body through airways.
How is it presented?
According to Dr Rakesh Gupta, the general symptoms include headache, fever, pain under the eye, nasal or sinus congestion, and partial loss of vision. The patient presents swelling of the nose, face and eyes.