AIIMS chief Dr Randeep Guleria on Saturday said the black fungus infection, called mucormycosis, is not any new infection but the number of cases has suddenly increased because of Covid-19 and its treatment. The spores of this fungal infection are present in the air, in soil and sometimes in food. "So wearing the mask is very important, especially if you visit a construction site," Dr Guleria said adding that at AIIMS Delhi there are 23 cases of the infection. Out of these, 20 patients are still infected with Covid-19, he said.

Some states are reporting over 400 to 500 cases, Dr Guleria said. Urging hospitals to focus more on infection control, the AIIMS chief said that secondary fungal infection is causing more morbidity and mortality.

"Mucormycosis was present before Covid also. During the 2003 SARS outbreak too, this infection was reported," Dr Guleria said adding that Covid infection, diabetes and the misuse of steroid during the treatment of Covid-19 are responsible for the increase in the infection.

AIIMS chief Dr Randeep Guleria on Saturday said the black fungus infection, called mucormycosis, is not any new infection but the number of cases has suddenly increased because of Covid-19 and its treatment. The spores of this fungal infection are present in the air, in soil and sometimes in food. "So wearing the mask is very important, especially if you visit a construction site," Dr Guleria said adding that at AIIMS Delhi there are 23 cases of the infection. Out of these, 20 patients are still infected with Covid-19, he said.

Some states are reporting over 400 to 500 cases, Dr Guleria said. Urging hospitals to focus more on infection control, the AIIMS chief said that secondary fungal infection is causing more morbidity and mortality.

"Mucormycosis was present before Covid also. During the 2003 SARS outbreak too, this infection was reported," Dr Guleria said adding that Covid infection, diabetes and the misuse of steroid during the treatment of Covid-19 are responsible for the increase in the infection.