Even as the mucormycosis or black fungus continues to be a grave concern amid the second wave of COVID-19, a new-found treat has now left the health authorities in jitters. Media reports claim that at least four cases of 'white fungus', which is said to be more dangerous than the black fungus, have been traced in Bihar.
What we know so far
The cases of white fungus have been reported in Patna Medical College and Hospital. Dr SN Singh, head of microbiology department, told a news portal that there could be many more cases of such infection in the country.
White fungus is deadlier than black fungus because it could affect vital functioning of the body.
Medical experts say that people with low immunity, diabetes and those who have undergone kidney transplant are more susceptible to this disease.
The new threat emerges at a time when the mucormycosis or black fungus is reported from many states among COVID-19 patients, especially those on steroid therapy and deranged sugar control.
Bihar has so far reported 50 cases of black fungus and two deaths.
The Union Health Ministry has urged states and Union territories to make black fungus a notifiable disease under the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, stating that the infection is leading to prolonged morbidity and mortality amongst COVID-19 patients.
The treatment of this fungal infection requires multidisciplinary approach consisting of eye surgeons, ENT specialists, general surgeon, neurosurgeon and dental maxillo facial surgeon, among others, and institution of Amphotericin-B injection as an anti-fungal medicine.
