41 black fungus cases detected in Odisha; Govt prepared to tackle eventuality

Bhubaneswar: Amidst the black fungus scare, 41 cases of the deadly fungal infection have so far been detected in Odisha.

Director of Public Health Niranjan Mishra said, “The number of persons affected by the fungal infection is less in Odisha with 41 cases reported so far.  However, we are fully prepared to tackle situation in case the number rises in coming days.”

However, sources claimed that four out of all the black fungus patients have succumbed to the infection till date.

Mishra further said authorities concerned have been asked to keep separate wards for COVID and non COVID patients at all district headquarters hospital (DHHs) and COVID hospitals.

“COVID-19 has crossed the peak period in the state and the trajectory is on a downward trend now. The infection rate has declined in other states. Since the infection spread late in Odisha, it is gradually slowing down now. The COVID death rate is also low in Odisha as compared to other states. Since a lot of patients were critical in the month of May, the number of deaths has slightly increased. Currently, the number of critical patients is less,” he said.

Regarding possibility of third wave, the health official said preparations are on and special task force has already been formed for the purpose. Next course of action will be taken as per the Government recommendations.  Meanwhile, door-to-door survey has also resumed in many places and focus is being given on accelerating antigen tests as per the ICMR guidelines to cover rural areas, he added.