Black fungus is the next big threat in Karnataka

Bengaluru: Black fungus is a serious threat now. Doctors in Bengaluru are reporting an increase in the cases of Mucormycosis. Many patients are getting every ill with these diseases. “The situation in Bengaluru is critical, with the number of patients coming in for treatment rising day by day. It will not be an exaggeration to say that about 20-25 patients affected with the black fungus infection are getting operated upon in the city on a daily basis”, said Dr Susheen Dutt, Consultant ENT Specialist, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta road.

Health Minister Dr K Sudhakar informed that a dedicated facility to treat black fungus has been set up in Bowring and Lady Curzon hospital.

He said excessive use of steroids and uncontrolled diabetes is the main reason for black fungus disease. The Health Department has made a team of experts including ophthalmologists to suggest treatment for the patients. Presently, its treatment is costly as the patients have to undergo treatment of seven days and the treatment charges may be in the range of Rs 2-3 lakh. Dr Sudhakar informed that he would discuss the matter with CM BS Yediyurappa so that they can extend free treatment for black fungus cases. He added that Covid patients who are in home isolation should not take steroids without the consultation of doctors.

Dr Dutt stated that the only proven anti-fungal medication that works against this kind of fungus is Amphotericin B. He added, “There are three kinds of Amphotericin B. Liposomal Amphotericin B is the best in quality because of which it is expensive. The adverse effects of Liposomal Amphotericin B are very low, making it the most preferred form. There is a shortage in the market of this medication.” On this, Dr Sudhakar said that the state has urged the Centre to allocate 20,000 vials of Amphotericin B. Deputy chief minister, CN Ashwath Narayan, on Saturday, said that nearly 400 cases of black fungus were estimated every week and there was a shortage of drugs for the same.