Covid-19 +tive Children Parents Be Vigilant for Black Fungus Symptoms 

Shimla, June 11 

A spokesperson of the Health Department said here today that it is being apprehended that the third wave may affect children below 18 years. With the rise in Covid-19 cases amongst this age group, cases of black fungus (Mucormycosis) may also be seen. Keeping this in view Directorate General Health Services Government of India has issued comprehensive guidelines to manage mucormycosis amongst the children. The child can suffer from Rhino-cerebral mucormycosis or Gastro-intestinal mucormycosis.

The signs and symptoms of Rhino-cerebral mucormycosis are facial pain, pain over sinuses, periorbital swelling, Conjunctival injection or chemosis, blurring of vision/diplopia, paraesthesia or decreased sensation over half of face, blackish discolouration of skin over nasolabial groove or alaenasi; nasal crusting and nasal discharge which could be blackish, or blood tinged, loosening of teeth, pain in teeth and gums, discoloration (pale) of palate or turbinates insensitive to touch, eschar over palate, worsening of respiratory symptoms, haemoptysis,  chest pain; headache, alteration of consciousness and seizures etc.

The signs of Symptoms of Gastro-intestinal mucormycosis are symptoms and signs are very non-specific and mimic other gastrointestinal conditions but have a progressively worsening course, unexplained feed intolerance, abdominal distension, Gastro-intestinal bleeding in a child with several risk factors, like shock, vasopressors, broad-spectrum antibiotics etc, persistent elevation of serum lactate in the absence of haemodynamic instability, liver dysfunction or other known cause.

He further added that the management of Mucormycosis has to be quick therefore if the parent/guardian sees any of the aforementioned signs and symptoms, the child should be immediately brought to hospital.

He said that the observation of the Covid appropriate behaviour is the basic measure to protect all. So everybody should wear mask, avoid gatherings, Keep good hygiene and get themselves tested if there is any symptom suggestive of Covid.