What is the black fungus epidemic? Thanks for asking!

Since May 2021, India has been faced with an additional epidemic on top of Covid-19. It’s that of a black fungus, also known as mucormycosis. This rare infection spreads among Covid patients, first of all attacking their faces, in particular the nose, sinuses or eyes, before moving onto the brain and lungs.

According to AFP, India has recorded over 45,000 black fungus cases in the last two months. That’s compared to less than 20 cases per year in pre-Covid times. The real figure may be much higher and the epidemic is causing major concern, especially given the infection has a mortality rate of 50%.

Why has this epidemic taken off in India? What is done to treat those infected with mucormycosis? Is the black fungus a new kind of Covid then? Has it been seen in other countries? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!

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