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Am I at risk of black fungus if I am not diabetic and did not take steroids for COVID-19?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I tested positive for COVID-19 ten days ago and have been completely asymptomatic. I have no diabetes or have not used steroids. Am I still at risk of black fungus or mucormycosis? I have been trying very hard not to panic looking at the cases. Please help me.

Answered by Dr. Utkarsh Sharma

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Utkarsh Sharma is an experienced General Pathologist specializing in the accurate diagnosis of diseases through laboratory testing and tissue analysis. He has expertise in clinical pathology, hematology, microbiology, and histopathology, ensuring precise and timely results to guide effective patient care. With a meticulous approach and strong analytical skills, Dr. Sharma plays a vital role in supporting physicians and enhancing patient outcomes through reliable diagnostic insights.    

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I completely understand your concern and will definitely help you regarding this. Black fungus or mucormycosis is an opportunistic fungus that thrives in low immunity and a favorable environment. Inadvertent use of steroids lowers immunity. Also, patients on ventilators for the long term have increased risk. You are not at extra risk for contracting mucormycosis, but you still need to take precautions. Handle your mask with hygiene. If you use a washable mask, wash it at regular intervals and if your mask is non-washable, then change it at appropriate intervals. Actually, long-term use of the mask makes it moist due to the moisture in the breath and sweat. These conditions may favor fungal or bacterial growth. Eat a well-balanced diet. I hope this helped. Take care, and I wish you a swift recovery.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sneha Kannan
Published At June 26, 2021
Reviewed At July 24, 2021

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Utkarsh Sharma is an experienced General Pathologist specializing in the accurate diagnosis of diseases through laboratory testing and tissue analysis. He has expertise in clinical pathology, hematology, microbiology, and histopathology, ensuring precise and timely results to guide effective patient care. With a meticulous approach and strong analytical skills, Dr. Sharma plays a vital role in supporting physicians and enhancing patient outcomes through reliable diagnostic insights.    

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sneha Kannan is a skilled Dental Surgeon with expertise in providing general dental care, including scaling, fillings, and preventive treatments. She does oral surgery procedures such as extractions and minor surgical interventions. She does procedures in restorative dentistry, including crowns, bridges, and dentures. She is an expert in doing endodontic treatments such as root canal therapy. She is well-versed in doing procedures in cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening and smile correction. She can provide pediatric dental care for children’s oral health and preventive treatments. She promotes oral hygiene awareness and preventive dental practices.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Utkarsh Sharma is an experienced General Pathologist specializing in the accurate diagnosis of diseases through laboratory testing and tissue analysis. He has expertise in clinical pathology, hematology, microbiology, and histopathology, ensuring precise and timely results to guide effective patient care. With a meticulous approach and strong analytical skills, Dr. Sharma plays a vital role in supporting physicians and enhancing patient outcomes through reliable diagnostic insights.    

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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