Black Fungus: A classic sign of a weakened immune system

The SARS-COVID-19 virus B.1.617 variant is a worldwide concern. Scientists believe that this variant will have a significant impact on the body's immune system, weakening its response and increasing vulnerability to fungal infections. An infection known as Mucormycosis or Black Fungus is a particular concern in COVID-19 recovered patients.
Mucormycosis, also known as Black Fungus, is a rare fungal infection caused by a fungus group known as mucormycetes. They are frequently found in the environment, particularly in animal dung, compost, soil, leaves, and rotting produce. These fungi can enter the body through skin wounds, inhalation, and breathing. These fungi have the potential to affect the brain, skin, lungs, and sinuses once they enter the body.
Mucormycosis fungal infection is most common in people with immunocompromised health conditions, such as Covid-19. Patients who take medications that have the potential to reduce the immune system's ability to fight infection are more likely to develop Black Fungus. In the case of Covid-19, the virus seeks a host in a vulnerable body with a weakened immune system. As a result, people recovering from Covid-19 are more likely to develop Black Fungus or Mucormycosis.
The infection can affect anyone, regardless of age. While the majority of people will come into contact with this fungus at some point in their lives, those with weakened immune systems are the most affected. If you have a specific disease and are taking medications that weaken your immune system, you could be a target for Black Fungus.
Black Fungus can cause cutaneous (skin) mucormycosis, gastrointestinal mucormycosis, pulmonary (lung) mucormycosis, and rhinocerebral (brain and sinus) mucormycosis. As a result, Mucormycosis symptoms will vary depending on where the fungi germinate in the body.
Mucormycosis is a rare but potentially fatal fungal infection. These fungi are angioinvasive, which means they attack and damage the surrounding blood vessels, causing tissue necrosis and even death. The administration of steroid drugs to Covid-19 patients set the stage for mucormycosis. While steroids help to reduce inflammation, they have a negative impact on the body's ability to fight infection.
In most cases, Black Fungus is diagnosed by taking a sample of nasal fluid and sending it to a lab for testing. To diagnose mucormycosis, the doctor may also order a tissue biopsy, an MRI scan, and a CT scan.
Antifungal medications are commonly used in the treatment of black fungus. Medications such as Posaconazole, Isavuconazole, and Amphotericin B can stop the fungus's growth and control the infection until the fungus is completely destroyed. Surgery is performed in severe cases to remove dead or infected tissues. Because surgery involves removing parts of the nose and eyes, it can cause permanent mental and physical harm.