Fungi are single or multicellular organisms that can be found in multiple habitats. Fungal species that grow in soil are major decomposers that live on dead and decaying matter. These fungal species are important for recycling different elements in nature. Some fungal species are parasites that cause diseases in plants and humans. Read Difference Between Black White and Yellow Fungus.
Recently, with the increasing cases of COVID-19, a surge in the cases of black, yellow, and white fungus was reported. The initial outbreak of black fungus or Mucormycosis was reported in many patients, followed by white and yellow fungus. Experts are aware of the lethal consequences of fungal co-infections in COVID-19 patients with immunocompromised conditions. Thus, it is important to maintain high levels of hygiene and cleanliness while treating the patients infected by opportunistic fungal species.
The fungal spores are ubiquitous in our environment but do not harm humans under healthy conditions. They pose a threat to people whose immune systems are weakened due to infection and the use of drugs. The fungal infections caused by opportunistic fungal species can commonly lead to cases of hospitalization and death.
The Indian government, under "Mission COVID Suraksha," channelized the power of public-private partnerships to increase the production of COVID vaccines and antifungal drug Amphotericin B to combat COVID and related fungal infections.
Difference Between Black, White and Yellow Fungus
The Difference Between Black White and Yellow Fungus with important parameters is as follows:
Name of Fungus | White Fungus | Yellow Fungus | Black Fungus |
Belongs to | Yeast | Myxomycetes | Mucormycosis |
Caused by | Candida species | Mucor septic | Mucormycetes |
Incidence in Humans | Common commensal in humans | Found in reptiles like lizards but not in humans | Spores commonly found in air |
Symptoms | - Fever
- Chest pain
- Coughing
- Breathlessness
- Headaches
- Diarrhoea
| - Pneumonia
- Nasal blockage
- Low appetite
- Extreme tiredness
- Weight loss
- Extreme infection can cause pus leakage and slow healing of wounds
- Organ failure
- Sunken eyes
| - Nasal Congestion
- Fever
- Headache
- Chest pain
- Blackened skin tissue
|
Treatment | Antifungal Drug Amphotericin B | Antifungal Drug Amphotericin B | Antifungal Drug Amphotericin B |
Lethality | Mildly lethal | Highly lethal | Lethal |
Preventive Measures to Reduce the Occurrence of Black, White and Yellow Fungus Infections
The majority of fungal infections are caused in patients with weak immune systems. It is important to take the following precautions around patients for reducing the chances of fungal infections.
- Maintain good hygiene
- Keep the surroundings clean
- Maintain humidity levels between 30 to 40 percent.
- Spoiled food should not be consumed.
Patients affected with fungal infections should be immediately reported for quick treatment.
FAQs on Difference Between Black White and Yellow Fungus
Q.1. What is the difference between black, white, and yellow fungus?
Black fungus is the infection caused by micromycetes, while white fungus is caused by candida species, a common commensal of the human oral cavity. Yellow fungus is caused by Mucor septic which was only found in reptiles to date.
Q.2. What precautions should patients take to avoid black, white, and yellow fungal infections?
Patients should maintain clean surroundings, good hygiene, and a humidity of 30 to 40 percent in order to avoid black, white and yellow fungal infections.
Q.3. Is there a difference in treatment related to the difference between black, white, and yellow fungus?
No. Currently, antifungal Amphotericin B is used for black, white and yellow fungus treatment.
Q.4. Why are patients with COVID-19 affected with black, white, and yellow fungus?
Fungal spores are present in our environment but do not cause infections in humans. However, patients with COVID-19 demonstrate low immunity levels. The opportunistic fungus takes advantage of the weakened immunity of patients and causes infections.