Raipur: Hospitals across India have been reporting cases of Covid-linked mucormycosis or black fungus, a rare infection. Chhattisgarh recorded its first death due to the COVID-triggered mucormycosis or black fungus while several more are being treated.
Mucormycosis is reported to affect the sinuses, the brain, and the lungs and can be life-threatening in diabetic or severely immune-compromised individuals such as cancer patients or people with HIV/AIDS. As per observation by the doctors, the symptoms of mucormycosis include headache, fever, pain under the eyes, nasal or sinus congestion, and partial loss of vision.
Bhilai, Chhattisgarh reported a death due to the COVID-triggered infection. The deceased was being treated at BSP Hospital Sector-9 Bhilai. Three other cases of the infection are being treated at Ambedkar Hospital.
The deceased identified as Srinivas Rao,35 was a resident of Bhilai and was admitted to the hospital after complaining of illness post-COVID recovery. The BSP’s public relations department confirmed the death of the black fungus after investigating the body. Raipur AIIMS Director Dr Nitin M Nagarkar also reported 15 cases of the infection being treated and said, ‘all patients are being closely monitored.’
Taking cognizance of the situation, CM directed all district health authorities to monitor the stock of the required drugs. The pharmacies are stocking up on Amphotericin B and Posaconazole to ensure timely availability. The state health department issues guidelines for the treatment
1. All cases will be treated at the Ambedkar hospital.
2. Essential medicines will be provided by the hospital.
3. The medicines can also be procured from CGMSC.