What is WHITE fungus (deadlier than black fungus)

 Mucormycosis, also known as black fungus, is a rare but dangerous infection. It's caused by a group of molds called mucormycetes and often affects the sinuses, lungs, skin, and brain. The infection can happen to anyone at any age. Most people will come into contact with the fungus at some point in their everyday lives. But you're more likely to get sick if you have a weakened immune system because of a medication you're taking or because you have a health condition.

Currently it's also adding to India's growing COVID-19 woes at the moment.

Amid the second wave of COVID-19, India saw several cases of Black Fungus (also known as Mucormycosis).

Now, it has been reported that, Patna, capital city of Bihar has reported four cases of White Fungus.

Here's what we know about the fungal infection so far:

As per a report by Zee News, Dr SN Singh, Head of Microbiology, Department of PMCH, confirmed cases of white fungus. He said that 4 such cases were detected so far and all the 4 patients showed COVID-19 symptoms but had tested negative in every test. He said that after a detailed investigation, it was revealed that they were infected with white fungus.

What causes white fungus:

This infection can be caused due to low immunity, says Dr Kumar, or if people come in contact with things that contain these moulds like water, etc. "Thus sanitation is important," he advises.

"Patients of white fungus show Covid-like symptoms but test negative; the infection can be diagnosed through CT-Scan or X-ray," the doctor says.

White fungus can affect not just the lungs but also other parts of the body including "nails, skin, stomach, kidney, brain, private parts and mouth", he adds.

Why are COVID patients prone to white fungus?

According to the doctor, COVID-19 patients are more prone to white fungus as it affects the lungs and similar symptoms are created like that of coronavirus.

“Those who have weak immunity like diabetes, cancer patients, and those who are taking steroids for a long period of time must take special care as they are more at risk. It is also affecting those coronavirus patients who are on oxygen support,” he says.