'Over 300 Mucormycosis cases in Karnataka'

Karnataka state health and medical education minister Dr. K Sudhakar on Monday said that over 300 Mucormycosis cases have been reported in the state and all district hospitals have been prepared for the treatment.

Bengaluru: All district hospitals have been prepared for the treatment of mucormycosis as there are more than 300 cases reported in the state, said Health & Medical Education Minister Dr.K.Sudhakar.

Speaking to the media here on Monday Dr.Sudhakar said the primary investigation report has revealed more than 300 cases in the state.

"Centre has allocated 1,150 vials of Amphotericin B as and we have already requested to provide 20,000 vials. I have personally discussed this with Union Minister DV Sadananda Gowda. Apart from district hospitals, all 17 govt medical colleges have been prepared for the treatment of Black fungus," he said.

"Earlier 200-300 people in a year suffered from this in the entire country, now more than 300 people have been infected in our state alone, which may be the reason for the shortage of medicine. There is an increase in the manufacturing of medicine. 1,150 vials of medicine have been received in the state and we are expecting 1000 vials more in a day or two," said the Minister.

A committee has been constituted to find the cause of this infection. As per their report, contaminated water used in the humidifier, excessive use of steroids, unsterilized medical equipment, prolonged use of the same mask, tube, beds, etc are the primary source of this infection. The report also suggests stopping building renovation work in Covid hospitals, not allowing outsiders into ICU wards, and ensure hygiene in clinical facilities.

ENT check-up has to be carried out after recovering from Covid. On the 3rd, 7th, and 21st-day checkup has to be carried out.

Payment has been made to Asha workers and other staff working in the health department. Revision of payment has to be discussed with the central government as ASHA workers come under NHM. We have more than 10 lakh quality PPE kit and the allegations against its quality are false, clarified the Minister.