New Threat: Misuse Of Steroids Major Cause Of Black Fungus Infection, Says AIIMS Chief

New Delhi: The number of new cases of coronavirus seems to be decreasing a tad, but it’s still not certain whether we have seen the peak of the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic.

Suddenly, everyone’s talking of a new threat – black fungus, or Mucormycosis. It’s a disease which seems to be affecting many who are fighting the coronavirus infection.

AIIMS Director Randeep Guleria acknowledged the threat of black fungus and warned against the misuse of steroids.

“Misuse of steroids is a major cause behind this infection (mucormycosis). Chances of fungal infection increase in the patients who are diabetic, COVID positive and are taking steroids. To prevent it, we should stop the misuse of steroids,” said AIIMS Director Dr Randeep Guleria during a press briefing on Saturday.

“This disease (mucormycosis) can affect the face, infecting nose, orbit of eye, or brain, which can cause even vision loss. It can also spread to the lung,” said Dr Guleria.

“As COVID-19 cases are increasing, it’s of paramount importance that we follow protocols of infection control practices at hospitals. It is been seen that secondary infections — fungal and bacterial — are causing more mortality.”

Also Read: Odisha Govt Forms Panel To Keep Tabs On Black Fungus Outbreak