Are YOU At Risk Of Black Fungus Post COVID-19? Read This!

Black Fungus, is a rare but serious fungal infection caused by a group of fungi called ‘mucor’. This fungus has always been part of our environment. This fungus is normally found indoors and outdoors alike, including soil, plants, decaying fruits, and vegetables. Spores from these fungi are breathed in by humans daily and are mostly harmless.

Under normal conditions, our body’s immune system successfully fights fungal infections such as mucormycosis. But these are not normal times, the advent of COVID-19 in our lives has affected the immunity of the COVID-affected individuals. COVID-19 infection causes a decrease in white blood cells (WBCs), our body’s defense system. These WBCs help the body fight infections and their scarcity makes our immunity weak. To add to that, the use of certain medicines such as steroids and tocilizumab as a part of COVID-19 treatment further compromises immunity.

COVID-19 affected diabetics are also at a greater risk of developing black fungus, especially if their diabetes is poorly controlled. Though the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to be due to the glucose overload in the tissues that provides a favorable environment for the growth of mold fungi.

Quick Tips To Prevent Mucormycosis

-Use masks if you are visiting dusty con

-People with COVID-19 who are diabetic, or had a prolonged stay in ICU should track and control blood sugar levels post discharge

-Never self-medicate, especially steroids

-Watch for symptoms and do not lose any time in starting treatment

-Follow your doctor’s instructions on seeking advanced investigations like biopsy or CT scan

-Masking can reduce exposure to mucor in the environment. Find the perfect mask here and stay protected from infections. 

-Wear shoes, long trousers, long sleeve shirts, and gloves while handling soil (gardening), moss, or manure. Avoid gardening if you are diabetic and your immunity is weak due to any reason. 

-Maintain personal hygiene and basic sanitation

-Ensure proper ventilation and let sunlight enter your homes.