At a time when states are seeing an increase in cases of black fungus (mucormycosis), a disease that mainly affects immunocompromised Covid-19 patients, reports of a new fungal infection known as “white fungus” have caused worry.
“White fungus” does not exist as a disease. According to research, the infection is candidiasis.
Patna, Bihar, was the site of the first records of the ‘white fungus’. These reports, however, were dismissed by the government-run Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH).
In Uttar Pradesh, a new case of the fungus known as the white fungus has discovered.
What do we know about the recent increase in white fungus infections?
Medical experts have raised concerns about discovering a new fungal infection after the black fungus infection has declared an outbreak and a notifiable disease in some states.
This fungus infection is more deadly and dangerous than black fungus, according to sources. At least four cases have found in Patna, Bihar, and several more could be undiagnosed at this time.
This fungus infection can be more severe, cause even more symptoms. Unlike the distinct facial deformity that is a noticeable characteristic feature of the infection (black crust-like shape, one-sided swelling on the face), doctors believe that a white fungus infection can only trace by performing an HRCT-like chest scan.
Here’s what we need to know about lethal fungi-causing infections as the number of cases grows:
What is a white fungus, and how does it spread?
Fungi moulds called ‘mucormycosis’ found in the atmosphere cause both white and black fungus infections.
Although the disease isn’t infectious, a person is vulnerable to infection because these moulds are easily inhaled by patients, spreading to vital organs and causing complications.
Who is in danger? What is the source of the infection?
A white fungus infection, like many pathogens, does the most harm to people who have a low immune threshold. As a result, a person with poor immunity or who is already at risk for another disease or is taking immunosuppressive drugs is at a high risk of contracting the white fungal infection.
People with chronic steroid use, such as diabetes, cancer, and other comorbidities, may be at risk of contracting the infection.
According to some sources, women and children are at an increased risk of infection, which has never been seen before with black fungus infection.
Doctors also warn that, like black fungus, the white fungus is infectious.
According to some sources, women and children are at an increased risk of infection, which has never been seen before with black fungus infection.
White fungus, like the black fungus, can be transmitted when a person comes into contact with unsanitary areas, according to doctors.
Patients on prolonged oxygen support, where water supplies may be polluted, may also be a source of transmission, which is why doctors are seeing an increase in white fungus cases identified among COVID patients in hospitals.
For example, unfiltered/tap water in humidifiers/oxygen cylinders can expose patients to these fungus symptoms.
This is also one of the most important reasons why everyone should prioritise sanitation and hygiene from time to time, like right now.
Signs and symptoms of the disease white fungus?
Many people who have been diagnosed with fungus infection have respiratory symptoms that are close to COVID-19. Still, they have tested negative for the virus in the majority of cases.
According to experts, X-rays or chest scans will reliably predict the severity of the disease and how vital organs can be affected.
In some instances, the disease’s symptoms are close to those of a black fungus infection.
When the fungus spreads to the lungs, more complicated symptoms can appear in those who have a severe infection.
Complications in the respiratory system may occur.
Although there is insufficient evidence on the subject, most doctors believe that white fungus can affect the chest and lungs, causing cough, chest pain, and breathlessness.