Minister cites possible causes for black fungus

As per the preliminary report of the microbiologists’ committee, possible sources of contamination in mucormycosis (black fungus) cases were use of tap water for humidifiers, and growth of fungus in c

As per the preliminary report of the microbiologists’ committee, possible sources of contamination in mucormycosis (black fungus) cases were use of tap water for humidifiers, and growth of fungus in cannulas and ICU equipment, Health and Family Welfare Minister K. Sudhakar has said. He told presspersons before inspecting the facilities and COVID management at Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) and Hospital in Hubballi on Saturday distilled water should be used for humidifiers. “However it has been found that tap water was used instead of distilled water. Cannulas and other equipment are used in ICUS. To check fungus growth, they should be completely sanitised or new sets of equipment should be used for treatment according to the preliminary report”, he said.