Mucormycosis: Steroids being the biggest cause, diabetes and covid patients more at risk

Dr. Guleria said that the spores of mucormycosis (black fungus) are found in soil, air, and even food. However, they are weak and do not usually cause infection. He said that there were very few cases of this infection before Covid. But now a large number of cases are being reported due to Covid.

More than 500 cases found in many states

Dr. Randeep Guleria said that 23 patients currently suffering from this fungal infection (mucormycosis) are undergoing treatment in AIIMS. Of these, 20 patients are still infected with the coronavirus and the rest have recovered from the infection. He said that more than 500 cases of Mucaramicosis have been reported in many states of the country.

Steroids are the biggest cause of black fungus

The AIIMS director said that black fungus can affect the face, nose, orbit of the eye, or the brain, which can also impair the ability to see. It can also spread to the lungs. Steroids are the biggest reason behind this. People suffering from diabetes and corona and taking steroids are more likely to get infected.

It is necessary to follow protocols in hospitals

Dr. Randeep Guleria said, as cases of Covid-19 infection are continuously increasing, it is most important that we start fully following the protocols of infection control practice in hospitals. Dr. Guleria said that it has been observed that secondary infections (fungal and bacterial) are leading to higher mortality.