Health Emergency Operations Centre (HEOC) has stated the samples of a suspected case have tested negative for the fungal infection mucormycosis, also known as black fungus.
The samples were sent abroad for testing earlier this week, after a Maldivian showed symptoms of the infection. Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) stated doctors found a dark coloration inside the patient's mouth and had sent the samples for testing as a precaution.
At an earlier press conference, Dr. Ibrahim Shiham from the Clinical Management Advisory Team of HEOC stated some countries have been reporting a rise in cases of black fungus, linked with the rise in COVID-19 cases. He said although black fungus is a dangerous infection, it is treatable, adding it is important to detect the infection early and begin treatment within at least 5-6 days.
Mucormycosis is a rare fungal infection that affects the nose, eye and sometimes the brain. The disease is caused by exposure to molds found in soil, plants, manure and decaying fruits. However, black fungus is not contagious and does not spread from one person to another.