Explained: How to identify black, white and yellow fungus?
By Asianet Newsable English | First Published May 26, 2021, 4:54 PM ISTLet us understand the different variants of fungal infection, the symptoms they exhibit and who stands at risk of getting them.
Cases of fungal infections are on the rise across the country during the second wave of Coronavirus. The number of cases of Mucormycosis or black fungus has been increasing in several states like Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka. Recently, a case of yellow fungus was reported from Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh. A few cases of white fungus were also reported from Patna in Bihar. Both these fungi are considered deadlier than black fungus and can cause severe problems if untreated.
Let us understand the different variants of fungal infection, the symptoms they exhibit and who stands at risk of getting it.
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Black Fungus
Black fungus or Mucormycosis has been announced as an epidemic by 29 states in India. This fungus has been seen affecting the face, nose and eye orbit. It has been reported to also affect the brain. In severe cases, it has also caused loss of vision or has spread into the lungs.
Who is at risk?
According to doctors, Covid-19 patients who have prolonged usage of steroids or have uncontrolled diabetes have a greater risk of getting infected with the black fungus. Some doctors even claim that a prolonged stay in the ICU can also expose the patients to fungus.
Symptoms
The black fungus can cause breathlessness, discolouration over the nose, one-sided facial pain, toothache, chest pain and blurred vision.
White Fungus
Considered deadlier than black fungus, white fungus severely affects the lungs and damages other parts of the body. This can become lethal and may impact an individual's nervous, respiratory, and digestive systems.
Who is at risk?
People whose immunity are compromised are at a greater risk of contracting the white fungus. Unsanitary mouldy environments further put a person at risk. This disease, though not contagious, puts another immunocompromised person at risk as these can be inhaled. People suffering from diabetes, cancer, or those on steroids are at a greater risk.
Symptoms
Since it affects the lungs, its symptoms are quite similar to those of Covid-19. It can cause chest pain, breathlessness and cough. It can also cause headaches, swelling, pain and infections.
Yellow Fungus
The yellow fungus normally affects reptiles and is considered deadlier than both black and white fungus. If untreated, this can lead to death. This infection is primarily caused by bad hygiene.
So, it is of utmost importance that we clean the enclosures of our homes. Any unattended food and faecal matter need to be cleaned as soon as possible to prevent the growth of any bacteria or fungi.
Who is at risk?
It is still unknown who are at a greater risk. Doctors are assuming that people with weaker immunities should remain alert and immediately inform doctors of any symptoms. People with diabetes, cancer and other comorbidities should also be alert of the same.
Symptoms
Symptoms for the yellow fungus include laziness, lack or loss of appetite and weight loss. It can also cause leakage of pus and slow healing of wounds, malnutrition, organ failure and sunken eyes due to eventual necrosis.
What is the treatment for these fungal infections?
The only treatment that is being followed for all these viruses is using a broad spectrum anti-fungal medicine, Amphotericin B.
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