Black fungus has been declared as an epidemic disease in Bihar under Section 2 of the Epidemic Disease Act 1897. The decision was taken by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on May 22.
The Chief Minister's office (CMO) tweeted and informed about the decision taken by Kumar. "Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced black fungus as an epidemic," CMO said.
The state till May 21 had reported 117 cases of Mucormycis, as per a Hindustan Times report. Bihar AIIMS has also created a separate 20-bed ward for effective treatment of such cases.
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India has so far reported approximately cases of 8,848 mucormycosis or black fungus, one of the rapidly spreading infections observed in those recovering from COVID-19.
Taking note of the increasing numbers, the Centre expedited the allocation of vials of Amphotericin-B, a key drug to treat raging mucormycosis.
Union minister of chemicals and fertilisers Sadananda Gowda on May 22 announced an allocation of 23,680 additional vials of Amphotericin-B to states and UTs.
"After a detailed review of rising number of cases of Mucormycosis in various states, a total of 23,680 additional vials of Amphotericin-B have been allocated to all states/UTs today. The allocation has been made based on the total number of patients which is approximately 8,848 across the country," he said.
Mucormycosis is a serious but rare fungal infection caused by a group of moulds called micromycetes that has been developing in Covid-19 patients.
The fungal disease is commonly observed in patients who were given steroids for a long time, who have been hospitalised for a long time, were on oxygen support or ventilator, faced poor hospital hygiene or those who have been taking medication for other illnesses such as diabetes.
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