What is mucormycosis? why does the quot;black fungusquot; attack covid-19 patients?

Mucormycosis, also known as “black fungus,” is a rare but serious fungal infection that may be especially dangerous for people with COVID-19. In recent months, cases of mucormycosis have started to increase, especially in India, raising serious concerns in the medical community. In this article, we will learn what mucormycosis is, what its symptoms are and why it is a threat to COVID-19 patients.

Mucormycosis – what are its symptoms?

Mucormycosis is a rare fungal infection caused by fungi from the Mucorales family, mainly Rhizopus oryzae. Although it can attack various parts of the body, it most often affects the nose and nasal passages, which is why it is called “black fungus.” Symptoms of mucormycosis may include:

• Runny nose or nosebleeds
• Pain and swelling of the face
• Headache
• Breathing difficulties
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Ulceration or necrosis of the skin

Mucormycosis is a rapidly progressing infection and requires immediate treatment. If not diagnosed and treated in time, it can lead to serious complications such as organ damage or death.

Why may it be a threat to people with covid-19?

Mucormycosis has become a particular threat to COVID-19 patients for several reasons:

1. Weakened immune system: Patients with COVID-19 often have a weakened immune system due to the infection itself and the use of immunosuppressive medications, making them more susceptible to fungal infections.
2. Steroid use: In some cases, COVID-19 patients are given a high dose of steroids to reduce inflammation in the lungs. This may further weaken immunity and promote the development of mucormycosis.
3. Use of oxygen masks: Patients often need to use an oxygen mask while undergoing treatment for COVID-19, which creates a moist environment that encourages fungal growth.
4. Life support with ventilators: In severe cases of COVID-19, respiratory support with ventilators is necessary, which increases the risk of mucormycosis infection by introducing fungi into the respiratory tract.

Difficult situation in india

In recent months, India has become the epicenter of the mucormycosis epidemic. Hospitals in India have recorded hundreds of cases of this dangerous infection in COVID-19 patients. The increase in the number of mucormycosis cases is related to difficulties in access to appropriate antifungal drugs, medical equipment and lack of personal protective equipment for medical staff. This creates extremely dangerous conditions for patients and makes it difficult to fight this infection.

Fungal infections – an underestimated threat

Fungal infections such as mucormycosis are often underestimated as a health risk compared to viruses and bacteria. However, in the case of a weakened immune system, mushrooms can become a deadly threat. Therefore, it is important that doctors and medical staff are aware of the risks and diagnose fungal infections at an early stage.

Your suggestions

To minimize the risk of mucormycosis in patients with COVID-19, it is important to:

• Monitor patients for signs of mucormycosis, especially if they are receiving steroids or have a weakened immune system.
• Ensure proper hygiene and maintain humidity of the oxygen mask.
• Safely use steroids and other immunosuppressive drugs only when prescribed by your doctor.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in the issue of mucormycosis and fungal infections, we recommend that you read the following articles:

• “Mucormycosis – diagnosis, treatment and prevention”
• “Fungal infections in hospitals: how to avoid the threat?”
• “COVID-19 and the immune system: how to protect yourself”

Mucormycosis is a serious health problem that requires attention and action from both medical staff and patients. By working together, we can reduce the risk of this infection and increase the chances of quick and effective treatment.