Rajasthan government on Wednesday declared the black fungus, or mucormycosis, an epidemic, reported ANI. Thus, the disease has been notified under the Rajasthan Epidemic Act 2020. 

What is mucormycosis, or black fungus?

Mucormycosis is a rare, but serious fungal infection being seen in several COVID-19 patients in India. It is caused by a group of moulds, called mucormycetes, which present naturally in the environment. It mainly affects those who’re on medication for a condition that reduces the body’s ability to fight environmental pathogens.

Also read: As black fungus cases spike, Amphotericin injection disappears from markets

The disease can affect the patient’s lungs, if he/she inhales the fungal spores. It can also develop on the skin, if the mould enters through a cut, burn, etc. It can also affect the patient’s brain. 

Mucormycosis, or black fungus in Rajasthan

Currently, there are 100 cases of black fungus in the state, reported PTI. A separate ward has been designated at Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital for its treatment.

More about the black fungus

As per the advisory issued by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), a COVID-19 patient is more immune to black fungus if he/she has the following conditions: diabetes, weakened immune system due to the use of steroids, prolonged stay at a hospital/ICU, co-morbidities. 

The symptoms include nasal blockade or congestion, cough, redness around the eyes or nose, shortness of breath, fever, headache, altered mood and bloody vomits. 

Also read: Misuse of steroids major cause of COVID-induced black fungus: AIIMS chief

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Friday shared a list of dos and don’ts regarding the fungal disease.

The government has advised the people to control hyperglycemia, monitor blood sugar level post COVID discharge and use steroids, antibiotics, antifungals judiciously, among others. 

Meanwhile, Haryana has declared black fungus a notified disease, reported PTI. Under this, the state government has formed regulations called ‘The Haryana Epidemic Diseases (Mucormycosis) Regulations, 2021’.