Is black fungus disease contagious?

ArabiaWeather - Black fungus disease is a non-contagious disease, which means that it cannot be transmitted through direct contact between humans or animals. But it spreads from fungal germs present in the air or in the environment, which are almost impossible to avoid, and in this article reviews the methods of infection with the disease and the factors that increase the risk of infection.

What is black fungus disease?

Black fungus disease, or mucormycosis, is an infection caused by mucous fungi. These fungi are everywhere and are naturally found in our environment, often in soil. Humans become infected by inhaling fungal spores floating in the air and in dust. These germs settle in the nasal passages and sinuses and cause blackening or change in the color of nasal secretions, blurred or double vision, chest pain, breathing difficulties, and coughing up blood.

How does black fungus spread?

Black fungus disease does not transmit between infected humans or animals, but it spreads from fungal spores present in the air or in the environment. Bacteria and fungi are already present in our bodies, but they are controlled by the body's immune system, and when the human immunity decreases due to treatment Cancer, diabetes, or the use of steroids (as in treatments for Corona), these germs are able to multiply and invade the human body.

Cases prone to infection with black fungus disease

Black fungus infection does not affect everyone who has been exposed to the fungi, so the development of the fungal disease depends on the person’s health condition. For most people who have a normal immune system, the infection does not occur.

As for people with weakened immune systems, such as: those with leukemia, those undergoing chemotherapy, or patients with bone marrow transplantation who are unable to form antibodies in the first weeks, they may fall victim to black fungus disease.

Likewise, during infection with the Coronavirus, heavy and prolonged doses of steroid can weaken the immune system, there is a misconception among doctors that the repercussions of infection with Covid-19 are more dangerous than increasing the steroid dose from the necessary dose, which has not been supported by any scientific experience so far.

Steroids can cause blood sugar levels to rise, which can be a particular challenge for patients with uncontrolled diabetes. High blood sugar levels and increased acidity in the blood create a fertile environment for the growth of mucous fungi, so infection with black fungus has been associated with diabetics as well.

Could oxygen cylinders and ventilators cause an outbreak?

Experts say unsanitary conditions can increase the risk of infection. The tubes used for oxygen and respirators may contain some pollutants. If you suffer from weak immunity, and you use these tubes and oxygen for a long period of time, the chances of infection with black fungus may increase.

Opinions are divided on this point.

Why is black fungus disease spread in particular and not other fungal infections?

Coronavirus infection has been linked to a wide range of secondary bacterial and fungal infections, but experts say that the second wave of the Coronavirus in India created an ideal environment for mucosal disease or black fungus.

Research has found several factors that have contributed to creating an ideal environment for infection with black fungus disease among those infected with the Coronavirus, such as: low oxygen, diabetes, high iron levels, low immunity, as well as many other factors, including the use of ventilators for long periods during the operation Hospitalization.