microbiological profile of post-covid-19 mucormycosis in various samples

Background and aim: increase in fungal superinfections among post-covid-19 patients created a panic during pandemic times in india. rhino-orbital mucormycosis cases have seen a rise in india among covid-19 patients. this study aims and objectives to know the incidence of mucormycosis among covid-19 infected patients and the age and sex distribution of post covid-19 mucormycosis patients. material and methods: all clinical specimens were received at the microbiology department from respective hospital units in sterile normal saline leak-proof containers. fungal cultures were followed until growth occurred or till 28 days. macroscopic and microscopic characteristics identified positive culture fungal growth. results: out of 97 post covid fungal infection patients in this study, 33 (34.02%) were female, and 64 (65.9%) were male. predominant populations were in the age group of 41 - 60; it was 60 out of 97 (61.8%), followed by 61-71 years (24.7%). out of 97 fungal pathogens, mucor, aspergillus, and mucor fungi were isolated predominantly; it was 32 (32.9%), 29 (29.8%), 16 (16.4%), and 11 (11.3%), respectively. conclusions: early diagnosis and treatment will help manage sars-cov-2-associated fungal infections. the formulation of stringent infection control protocols, antimicrobial usage policy, and updated covid-19 management guidelines by government authorities helps reduce infections.