Black fungus is a type of fulminant fungal sinusitis caused by a fungus called mucor. Mucor is found everywhere in our environment, even in the air we breathe. Understanding how Mucor spreads and who is at risk can help prevent and detect it early.
What is Mucor?
Mucor is a fungus commonly found everywhere in the environment. It thrives on decaying organic matter, including dead plants, animals, compost, and soil. Mucor is often called black fungus or black mold as the tissue it attacks is devoid of blood supply, and the tissue dies, turning into a black colour. The infection mucor causes is also called black fungus, but it's actually called mucormycosis.
How Does Mucor Spread?
Mucor is primarily spread through the air in the form of spores. These spores are microscopic and are easily carried by the wind, making their way into the environment. We inhale these spores daily. When we inhale, they can enter into the nasal passages or sinuses or even come into contact with the skin.
While it enters our bodies regularly through the air, it only becomes problematic when the body's immune system is weak and unable to fight the infection.
Can Mucor Spread from One Person to Another?
No, mucor cannot be transmitted from one person to another. It is not a contagious fungus. It only enters when an individual inhales the spores or has direct contact with fungal matter in the environment.
Is Mucor Harmful to Humans?
While Mucor is widespread in the environment, it is generally harmless to people with a healthy immune system. The body's natural defence mechanisms can effectively combat it. However, for those with compromised immunity or underlying conditions, Mucor can lead to severe infections.
What Disease is Caused by Mucor?
Mucor can cause mucormycosis, a life-threatening fungal infection.
Mucormycosis is fulminant fungal sinusitis, the most aggressive and rare form of fungal sinus infection. It occurs when Mucor infects the nasal passages, sinuses, or lungs and spreads quickly through the blood vessels and tissues. Black fungus (mucormycosis) more commonly starts in the nose and spreads to the sinuses rather than originating in the lungs. This rapid progression can lead to severe complications and, in some cases, death. Because of how quickly it spreads, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving survival rates.
Who Is at Risk of Mucormycosis?
While Mucor is present everywhere, it only causes harm to individuals with weakened immune systems. Here is a list of individuals who are particularly at risk of developing mucormycosis:
Organ transplant patients on immune-suppressing medications
Cancer patients on anti-cancer drugs
People with immune deficiency syndromes Eg: AIDS
Patients who are on long-term steroid therapy
Uncontrolled diabetic patients
How do you Prevent Mucor?
It is impossible to avoid mucor exposure entirely, but prevention is vital. Maintaining strong immunity and controlling blood sugar levels, especially in diabetics, are key to preventing mucormycosis. N95 masks can filter mucor spores, though constant use may not be practical. During viral infections like COVID-19, which caused mucormycosis cases during India’s first and second waves, wearing a mask during infection and shortly after recovery can help reduce risk.
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