SHRI SHIVAJI SCIENCE COLLEGE, AMRAVATI

DBT STAR COLLEGE PROJECT ACTIVITY

ACTIVITY REPORT

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Guest Lecture on Mucor Mycosis - Post-COVID Challenge by Dr. Niraj Murky


Activity Dates: 25/09/2024.

Type of Activity: Faculty Development Program

Organizing Department: Department of Microbiology

Program Coordinators: Dr. Sampada Dongare, Dr. Rasika Jane, Dr. Ashruta Gawali , Ms. Soniya Khandare

Head of the Department: Dr. D. D. Khedkar

External Collaborator (if any): Nil

Objectives:

No of Beneficieries: 300

Classes Involved: B.Sc.I, B.Sc II And B.Sc III (Microbiology and Biotechnology)

Venue of the Activity: C.V. Raman Hall, Shri Shivaji Science college amravati

Activity Report:

The devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic left no sphere of life untouched, with various post-recovery complications posing serious threats to survivors. Among the most critical of these is mucormycosis, commonly known as "black fungus." This fungal infection, which surged during the post-COVID period, became a life-threatening complication for many immunocompromised individuals, particularly those recovering from the virus. To address this pressing health issue, a seminar on "Mucor Mycosis - Post COVID Challenge" was organized, delivered by the renowned expert Dr. Niraj Murky, under the leadership of Principal Dr. G. V. Korpe and the Department of Microbiology. The program aimed to shed light on the pathogenesis, treatment, and prevention of mucormycosis, drawing a keen audience of students, faculty, and medical professionals alike. This event was organised under star DBT project on 25/09/2024.
Context and Importance
The COVID-19 pandemic placed unprecedented strain on global healthcare systems, not just because of the viral infection itself but also due to secondary infections like mucormycosis. The disease, caused by fungi of the Mucorales order, became rampant in individuals recovering from COVID-19, particularly those with uncontrolled diabetes, compromised immune systems, or those who had been treated with corticosteroids.
In the aftermath of the pandemic, the incidence of mucormycosis surged significantly in India, demanding a multi-disciplinary approach for its management. As such, seminars like the one conducted by Dr. Niraj Murky are essential for educating both medical professionals and students, raising awareness about this deadly fungal infection, and discussing effective treatment protocols.
Introduction to Mucormycosis
Dr. Niraj Murky commenced the seminar by providing an in-depth introduction to mucormycosis. He explained that it is a rare but serious fungal infection caused by molds that exist widely in the environment, often found in soil, decaying organic matter, and dust. Mucormycosis primarily affects the sinuses, lungs, and brain, although it can also spread to other parts of the body in severely immunocompromised individuals.
He highlighted that post-COVID patients became particularly vulnerable to this infection due to the widespread use of steroids, which can suppress the immune system. Additionally, many COVID patients were already suffering from pre-existing conditions like diabetes, a known risk factor for mucormycosis, further exacerbating their susceptibility.
Mechanisms and Pathogenesis
Dr. Murky elaborated on the pathogenesis of mucormycosis. The fungal spores enter the body through the respiratory tract, where they find an environment conducive to growth, especially in individuals with weakened immune responses. From the sinuses, the infection can invade nearby structures like the eyes and brain, causing a life-threatening condition known as rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis. If left untreated, mucormycosis has a high mortality rate, making early diagnosis and intervention critical.
He emphasized that, in post-COVID patients, factors like elevated blood sugar levels (due to diabetes or steroid-induced hyperglycemia), prolonged hospital stays, and poor hygiene practices contribute significantly to the increased risk of infection.
Diagnosis and Symptoms
Dr. Murky stressed the importance of early diagnosis, presenting a clear list of symptoms that attendees should be aware of. These include:
Nasal congestion or blackish discharge
Swelling of the eyes and face
Vision loss or double vision
Headaches and fever
Chest pain or breathlessness in case of pulmonary involvement
He noted that mucormycosis often progresses rapidly, and its symptoms can be mistaken for less severe conditions, thus leading to delayed treatment. Through his detailed explanation, Dr. Murky underscored the need for medical professionals and caregivers to maintain a high level of suspicion, particularly in post-COVID patients presenting with any of these symptoms.
Treatment and Management
The session then moved on to treatment strategies, with Dr. Murky outlining the importance of an aggressive approach to managing mucormycosis. He explained that treatment often involves a combination of antifungal therapy and surgical debridement, wherein the infected tissues are removed to prevent further spread. The most commonly used antifungal drug is amphotericin B, which is administered intravenously over several weeks.
Dr. Murky shared his concerns over the limited availability and high cost of amphotericin B during the peak of the mucormycosis outbreak, which further compounded the challenges of treating this condition. He also highlighted the role of Posaconazole and Isavuconazole as alternative antifungal agents when amphotericin B is either unavailable or unsuitable.
The professor also touched on the importance of managing underlying conditions like diabetes. "Glycemic control is key," he remarked, explaining that hyperglycemia creates an ideal environment for fungal growth and suppresses the immune system's ability to fight off infections.
Preventive Measures
While discussing prevention, Dr. Murky offered practical advice, especially for the students and teachers attending the seminar. He emphasized that maintaining strict hygiene, especially for post-COVID patients, is critical. He recommended avoiding exposure to dust, soil, and decaying organic matter, which are sources of fungal spores. He also advised against unnecessary use of steroids, especially in individuals who do not require them, and highlighted the importance of close blood sugar monitoring for diabetic patients.
Dr. Murky concluded his session by advocating for increased public awareness of mucormycosis. He proposed that healthcare institutions and educational organizations must collaborate to disseminate knowledge about prevention and early detection strategies.




Contributions of Faculty Members
The success of the seminar would not have been possible without the contributions of the esteemed faculty members who facilitated the event. The head of the Department of Microbiology, Dr. D. D. Khedkar, played a pivotal role in organizing and structuring the seminar, ensuring that the topics addressed were both timely and relevant. His opening remarks set the stage for an engaging discussion, underscoring the importance of addressing post-COVID challenges like mucormycosis.
Among the distinguished faculty members present, Dr. Rasika Jane, Dr. Sampada Gawali, Dr. Ashruta Gawali, and Dr. Suwarna Mankar were instrumental in facilitating the program. Their presence and support ensured that the event ran smoothly, and their interactions with the students helped foster a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Professors Dnyneshwari Chokhat, Komal Nagpure, and Utkarsha Pete were also key contributors. Their commitment to student welfare and academic excellence was evident, as they guided the students through the complex topics discussed during the session. They actively participated in the interactive portions of the seminar, posing insightful questions and helping the students clarify their doubts.
Chairperson's Remarks
The seminar concluded with closing remarks by the chairperson of the event, Principal Dr. G. V. Korpe. Dr. Korpe lauded the efforts of Dr. Niraj Murky in delivering such an informative and critical session. He also expressed his appreciation for the Department of Microbiology for taking the initiative to organize the seminar, especially at a time when post-COVID complications like mucormycosis continue to pose a significant challenge.
Dr. Korpe highlighted the importance of such academic engagements in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world medical challenges. He encouraged students to pursue further research in the field of post-COVID complications, including mucormycosis, as it remains an area of evolving study and medical intervention.
Overall the guest lecture on "Mucor Mycosis - Post COVID Challenge" was a resounding success, offering valuable insights into a critical post-pandemic health issue. Dr. Niraj Murky’s comprehensive presentation on the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of mucormycosis equipped attendees with the knowledge needed to address this condition in clinical settings. The involvement of the faculty and the leadership of Principal Dr. G. V. Korpe ensured that the event was not only informative but also inspirational, encouraging students and faculty alike to remain proactive in their approach to post-COVID challenges.
Through this event, the Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology once again demonstrated its commitment to advancing medical knowledge and addressing real-world health concerns, paving the way for continued research and awareness in the post-pandemic world.

Outcomes:

Photos:

Almost 300 students are attending guest lecture by Dr. Murkey
Almost 300 students are attending guest lecture by Dr. Murkey
Dr. Murkey delivering guest lecture
Dr. Murkey delivering guest lecture
Dr. Murkey delivering guest lecture
Dr. Murkey delivering guest lecture
 explaining facts about Mucor mycosis
explaining facts about Mucor mycosis
Head of the Dept. addressing students
Head of the Dept. addressing students
Murkey sir during lecture
Murkey sir during lecture

Attendance Sheet: