Black fungus has no connection with trees: Pankaj Garg, Deputy Forest Conservator from Nashik

The state government of Maharashtra has been successful in controlling the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), however, a few weeks ago, the country faced a new challenges with fungal infection spreading among COVID-19 patients. Maharashtra reported highest cases with black fungus aka Mucormycosis, and measures were taken to offer the best treatment possible for the patients.

The fear of being infected with this kind of fungus spread quickly among the citizens, and as per reports, rumours are being shared that the infection is spreading due to trees. Posts were shared by many users on social media, basis which, citizens in Nashik began cutting trees to curb the same.

Also Read: 400 patients detected with Mucormycosis in Mumbai; BMC sets up committee for distribution of injections

Clarifying the matter, Nashik's Deputy Forest Conservator, Pankaj Garg, told ANI, "Some people are felling trees due to fears of black fungus. This disease has no connection with trees. This fungus is in environment. Continuously taking steam, use of the same face mask for a long time & steroids are major reasons."

Some people are felling trees due to fears of black fungus. This disease has no connection with trees. This fungus is in environment. Continuously taking steam, use of the same face mask for a long time & steroids are major reasons: Pankaj Garg, Deputy Forest Conservator, Nashik pic.twitter.com/rcQMr6eRfi

— ANI (@ANI) June 8, 2021

He also informed that there are many ways the fungus could infect the people, but it does not spread from trees and cutting down the same is not the solution.

Meanwhile, cases with mucormycosis have increased across the state and several citizens are seeking assistance for the treatment which, as per reports, is not affordable to the common man. Understanding the same, the government recently has decided to cap the cost of mucormycosis treatment rates at private hospitals. The decision was approved by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray based on the suggestions made by the state  health department.

Based on the revised guidelines, the cost has been decided as per cities, and the rates have been fixed accordingly. Officials have asked the hospitals not to include any additional charges and warnings have been issued regarding the consequences, if any violations were reported.