Health Emergency Operation Centre (HEOC) has stated the fungal infection mucormycosis, which is currently being reported in some countries, is yet to be detected in the Maldives.
Speaking at a press conference, Dr. Ibrahim Shiham from the Clinical Management Advisory Team of HEOC stated some countries have been reporting a rise in cases of mucormycosis, also known as black fungus, linked with the rise in COVID-19 cases. He said the Maldives is yet to detect a confirmed case of mucormycosis, although samples of a suspected case have been sent abroad for testing. He said information on the test results will be shared with the public as soon as it is available.
Speaking further, Dr. Shiham said although mucormycosis is a dangerous infection, it can be treated. He said it is extremely important to detect the infection early and begin treatment within at least 5-6 days. He also urged the media not to spread misinformation during this critical time, as it would create unnecessary panic among the public.
Mucormycosis is a fungal infection that affects the nose, eye and sometimes the brain. Some countries have been reporting a rise in mucormycosis cases linked with surges of COVID-19.