Fungal diseases, unlike those caused by viruses or bacteria, have flown under the radar in medical science. Mucormycosis left doctors, patients with battle scars.
Experts said cases of mucormycosis peaked due to excessive misuse of steroids amid the 2nd wave. Unmonitored blood sugar levels and self-medication by many also contributed.
Diabetes, high steroid use, unsanitary conditions, changes in iron metabolism and lack of ventilation are the most likely reasons for this medical crisis, researchers said.
A study found that the prevalence rate of diabetes in rural and urban India has increased about six times from 1972 to 2017. Targeting changes in lifestyle is the need of the hour.
A panel will probe oxygen supply chains, role of medication, and referral cases from smaller hospitals to ascertain the source causing mucormycosis in recovering Covid patients.
Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, a leading gastroenterologist in Kerala, cites an analysis of 210 patients to state there are factors beyond steroid use and diabetes in emerging cases of mucormycosis.
There are over 7,000 cases of mucormycosis, or black fungus, in India. Misinformed and indiscriminate use of oral steroids may have brought on this avoidable tragedy.
Delhi hospitals are seeing a rise in cases of mucormycosis, or Black Fungus infection, & are struggling with ensuring medicine stock, says govt needs to speed up supply.
The health ministry invokes the Epidemic Diseases Act 1897, urges states to follow guidelines for screening, diagnosis, and management of black fungus.
This special edition of Cut The Clutter, straight from the Siliguri corridor, details the strategic importance of the narrow strip of land in West Bengal, and how it’s a vital link connecting the Northeast to the rest of India.
We now live in a world order that will keep shifting. India must use this window. This also means we remain disciplined enough not to be knee-jerked into reacting to what Pakistan sees as its moment in the sun.
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