Why in News?

After black and white fungus, the recent cases of yellow fungus has become a cause for concern.

About Yellow Fungus:

• Yellow fungus, (also called mucor septic), initially develops by the presence of moulds (a type of fungi) in the environment.
• Key symptoms include unnecessary fatigue, rashes, burning sensation on skin etc.
• Humidity levels below 30-40% are known as apt condition for growth of fungus.
• It may not start by infecting the lungs, but it invades internal organs of the body and affects the entire functioning.
• Potential Causes:
  • Prolonged use of steroids,
  • Contaminated environment,
  • Uncontrolled diabetes,
  • Unhygienic habits,
  • Lesser immunity,
  • Comorbidities, etc
• The treatment for Covid-19 done with steroids and immunosuppressants leave the body with weak immunity.
• Symptoms:
  • Weight loss, reduced appetite, lethargy, etc.
• If not detected in time, symptoms can turn more severe including pus leakage, sunken eyes, organ failure, slow healing of wounds etc.
• Treatment:
• Till date, the only known treatment for yellow fungus is Amphotericin-B injection, an antifungal drug also being used to treat black fungus.
• Prevention:
  • Maintaining hygiene, not consuming stale food, keeping the humidity in the room in check, etc.