With the onset of the third wave of coronavirus, news of Black Fungus cases have started surfacing from Uttar Pradesh yonce again. Notably, a COVID-positive patient with 'Mucormycosis' was admitted to Kanpur's Lala Lajpat Rai Hospital on Monday.

While several patients got infected with this disease during the second wave, especially those who had recovered from COVID, this is the first case that has been reported in the state this year. Check out more about this disease here:

What is Black Fungus or Mucormycosis?

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A rare but dangerous fungal infection, Mucormycosis or Black Fungus is caused by a group of molds called ‘mucormycetes'. These fungi enter the body through open wounds in the skin or through inhaling or breathing. After entering the body these fungi affects the brain, skin, lungs and sinuses of the host.

Talking about Black Fungus, Dr. S.N. Gupta, Chief Pulmonologist at Sanjivini Hospital and Research Centre said, "This disease usually affects people who have gone through long-term steroid usage, long-term hospitalisation or have been on supplemental oxygen. Further, those suffering from diabetes, immunocompromised diseases like HIV and cancer and those who have undergone organ transplantation are also prone to catching Black Fungus after COVID-19."

Symptoms of Black Fungus

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Since this infection generally attacks immunocompromised people, people recovering from COVID are at a higher risk of getting infected with Black Fungus.

Explaining the symptoms of this disease, the doctor said, "Common symptoms include nose bleeding and pain, one-sided facial swelling, severe headache, red and painful eyes, loss of vision and other things. If a COVID recovered patient spots any such symptoms after recovery, he/she must immediately contact ENT Surgeon or the Ophthalmic surgeon. If quick steps are taken, there is nothing to worry about and the recovery will be assured soon."

Knock Knock

The first step towards recovery is a quick diagnosis followed by the requisite medical intervention. In times like this, it is even more important to keep a tab on one's health to avoid any complications in the future. If you have contracted the virus or someone you know is dealing with any other health problems, contact your nearest hospital and connect with the doctors without any delay.

Touted to be one of the leading facilities in Lucknow, Sanjivini Hospital and Research Centre, is here to the rescue of those in need. You can reach out to the hospital at 0522-4232333 for appointments and other assistance. For more information, do check out their official website.