Black fungus vs. white fungus: Signs, symptoms and who is at risk

Black fungus was recently announced as an epidemic in four states in India. Just a few weeks after black fungus was terrifying people, reports of four cases of white fungus emerged in Patna. Reportedly, white fungus is more dangerous than the black fungus. Doctors have also warned that delay in treatment can lead to death and so they must be taken with utmost seriousness.

It should be noted that these fungal infections are not new. Both black and white fungus are caused by mucormycetes, which are already present in our environment.

What makes white fungus more dangerous is the fact that it has a grave impact on the lungs as well as other body parts. It can become lethal and may impact vital organs like the brain, respiratory system, digestive tract.

Mucormycosis or black fungus can affect the face, nose, eye orbit and even brain, and can lead to vision loss. It can also spread to the lungs. AIIMS director Randeep Guleria blames misuse of steroids as one of the reasons behind its spread.

White fungus attacks people who are immunocompromised, i.e. they have low immunity. Unsanitary environments containing the moulds make people prone to catching this fungal infection. The disease is not contagious but another immunocompromised person can be at risk, since these can be inhaled by a patient. Even diabetics, people suffering from cancer and those on long steroids treatment are more at risk of catching white fungus.

It is said that diabetics, COVID patients and people on long use of steroids are at a higher risk of contracting the fungal infection. Even prolonged ICU stay is said to increase the risk of black fungus.

White fungus symptoms are quite similar to COVID symptoms. The lungs can be involved and may lead to chest pain, cough and breathlessness. It can also cause headaches, pains, infections or even cause swelling.

In recent weeks, black fungus is attacking people recovering from COVID. The infection can cause discolouration over nose, blurred vision, one-sided facial pain, toothache, chest pain and breathlessness. In some cases, it can also lead to patients coughing out blood. This infection can turn fatal if not attended to on time.