India sees 259,551 new COVID cases, ‘black fungus’ adds to woes

Deaths rise by 4,209 as rising cases of mucormycosis, a rare fungal disease, further complicate the crisis.

India has reported 259,551 new coronavirus infections over the last 24 hours, while deaths have risen by 4,209 with rising cases of mucormycosis, a fungal disease also known as “black fungus”, further complicating treatment. The South Asian nation’s infection tally stands at 26.03 million, with a death toll of 291,331, health ministry data showed on Friday. “Black fungus” presents a new challenge for COVID-19 patients on steroid therapy and those with pre-existing diabetes.