Using same mask for 2-3 weeks could lead to black fungus development: AIIMS doctor

Team Udayavani, May 22, 2021, 8:16 PM IST

 New Delhi: Professor of Neurosurgery at AIIMS Dr P Sarat Chandra said that the black fungal infection mucormycosis, which is being reported in COVID-19 patients, is not new but it has never happened in epidemic proportions before

Speaking to ANI,  he said, “One of the most imp reasons is uncontrolled diabetics, systemic use of steroids along with tocilizumab, patients on ventilation, taking supplemental oxygen. Within 6 weeks of COVID treatment if people have any of these factors they’re at highest risk of black fungus”

Explaining possible reasons for mucormycosis infection, Dr Chandra said, “Giving cold oxygen directly from the cylinder is very dangerous. Using a mask for 2-3 weeks could be a setting for the development of black fungus. Anti-fungal drug Posaconazole can be given to high-risk individuals to reduce incidents of black fungus”