India reports 8.8K black fungus cases; Amphotericin vials allocated

Mucormycosis is a serious but rare fungal infection caused by a group of molds called mucormycetes that has been developing in Covid-19 patients. Pic/IANS

India has so far reported approximately 8,848 cases of mucormycosis or black fungus, one of the rapidly spreading infections observed in those recovering from Covid-19. Taking note of the increasing numbers, the Central government has emphasised on expediting the allocation of vials of Amphotericin-B, a key drug to treat the infection. In this direction, the Union minister of chemicals and fertilisers, DV Sadananda Gowda, has announced an allocation of 23,680 additional vials of Amphotericin-B.

Gujarat has reported the maximum number of mucormycosis cases (2,281) followed by Maharashtra (2,000), Andhra Pradesh (910), and Madhya Pradesh (720) . Mucormycosis is a serious but rare fungal infection caused by a group of molds called mucormycetes that has been developing in Covid-19 patients. The fungal disease is commonly being observed in patients who were given steroids or hospitalised for a long time, who were on oxygen support or ventilators, faced poor hospital hygiene or those who have been taking medication for other illnesses such as diabetes. If not treated on time, the black fungus infection can turn fatal. Covid-19 medications can leave the body weak and low on immunity. They can also escalate blood sugar levels in both diabetic and non-diabetic Covid-19 patients.

Also Read: 'Black Fungus' claims 100 in Maharashtra: Health minister Rajesh Tope

Rahul Gandhi hits out

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who has been highlighting vaccine shortage for days, on Saturday hit out at the BJP government saying that due to its mismanagement, there is now an epidemic of black fungus along with Covid-19 infections in India. In a tweet, Gandhi said, "It is only in India that there is an epidemic of black fungus along with the Covid pandemic due to the inefficiency of the Modi system. There is a shortage of vaccines as well as of medicines. And to deal with this, the Prime Minister will be telling people to clang utensils and clap." His remarks came a day after the PM had an emotional moment while interacting with the frontline workers of his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi.

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