Even as the country is reeling under second wave of coronavirus and Black Fungus infection, a new found threat 'White Fungus', has been detected in Patna, Bihar. The infection is said to be even more dangerous than black fungus.The Union government has already declared Black Fungus as the disease notifiable under the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897. It is now mandatory for all medical facilities to report Black Fungus infections to a central disease surveillance network.Meanwhile, here's what we know about the White Fungus so far:
Why is it more dangerous than Black Fungus?According to doctors the White Fungus is more dangerous as White Fungus affects not just the lungs but also other parts of the body including nails, skin, stomach, kidney, brain, private parts and mouth.
White Fungus casesFour cases of White Fungus have been traced in Patna, Bihar, which are already reeling under the second wave of COVID-19.
Infection similar to COVID-19 in lungsAccording to the health experts, the White Fungus also causes infection similar to COVID-19 in the lungs when high-resolution computed tomography is performed on the infected patient.
Risks and Symptoms?The four patients in Bihar who were infected with White Fungus did show COVID-19 symptoms but were found negative on being tested. Also, doctors have issued warning saying that the White Fungus, unlike Black Fungus, spreads quickly to the vital organs.Pregnant women and children are at a higher risk, hence proper sanitisation and cleaning of the surfaces and environment needs to be done.
What about the mortality rate?The mortality rate of White Fungus is currently unknown. Also, not much evidence has been found of the White Fungus spreading to other states.
Test required to trace White FungusMedical experts believe that an HRCT scan may be required to trace the white fungal infection in patients. HRCT test is done to assess the extent of viral infection in lungs and damage it has caused to tissues to decide further treatment.
Who is at higher risk?People with low immunity, pre-existing medical situations, cancer patients, diabetic patients, and people on or using steroids are at a high risk of contracting the white fungal infection, suggest reports.