90 dead due to Mucormycosis in Maharashtra so far, says Health Minister Rajesh Tope

According to medical experts, steroids which suppress immune system make a patient vulnerable to catching the fungal infection. 

Mumbai: As many as 90 people have died of Mucormycosis, a rare but fatal fungal infection, in Maharashtra so far, state public health minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday (May 19).  Cases of mucormycosis, also called Black Fungus, have been on rise since the outbreak of coronavirus last year, though the minister did not mention any timeframe. He also warned against the indiscriminate use of steroids to treat COVID-19 patients. "So far, 90 people have died due to mucormycosis in Maharashtra. It is serious. and should not be taken lightly. Indiscriminate use of steroids to treat patients suffering from coronavirus should be avoided," the minister was quoted as saying by PTI.  Factors such as severe diabetes and suppression of immune system also lead to people catching the infection, Tope said.