More and more people are being infected with COVID and, several more are losing their lives. Amidst this, people who are suffering and recovered from COVID are getting infected by fungus. Here’s everything you need to know about black fungus and white fungus.
What is Black Fungus? What causes it?
Black fungus infection is caused by molds belonging to mucormycosis. It primarily targets the lungs and brain. They are found freely in the environment but do not affect everyone. Why? That’s because black fungus mainly affects people with low immunity or diabetes. It also affects people who have been in the ICU for a long time or take immunosuppressants and steroids.
What is White Fungus? What causes it?
White fungus is another rare fungus disease that affects the brain, kidney, lungs, and sex organs. It can also affect nails, stomach, and skin. The fungus affects people suffering from diabetes and low immunity due to steroids or diseases. The fungus is detected by a high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan.
Experts say that the white fungus is four times more dangerous compared to the black fungus.
What are the main differences between the two fungi?
The main difference between the two fungi is their symptoms. The black fungus causes headaches, nasal congestion, swellings in the cheek and eyes. It can also cause facial pain, loss of vision in the eyes, and black crusts in the nose. On the other hand, the white fungus causes fever, cough, reduced oxygen levels, cough, and diarrhea.
Who are at risk for this rare fungal disease?
One has a higher risk of contracting them if you suffer from COVID, diabetes, or other diseases affecting the immune system. Cancer patients and those on oxygen support for a long time are also at risk.
Can black and white fungus infection be treated?
Yes, both these infections are treatable. Catching them early aids in faster recovery. Currently, patients with this disease are being treated with anti-fungal medication and immunity boosters. However, if the disease progresses severely into the lungs and brain, it will have to be operated on for removal.
The black fungus has elevated to the epidemic status across several states in India. The devastating white fungus is reported in Bihar and neighboring states. With the rise in infection and rare fungal diseases, it is vital to take safety measures to protect ourselves.