Strengthening medical research and development in Uttar Pradesh, ICMR has approved the establishment of an advanced Mycology Diagnostic and Research Centre in Lucknow. Claimed to be the first facility of its kind in the state, the new centre will be set up at the Microbiology Department of King George Medical College. As per reports, a number of fungal infections, including the deadly black fungus disease, will be studied at this centre.
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Reportedly, molecular and genetic testing will be deployed to conduct deep and focused examinations at this centre. Further, reports state that tests for gauging the level of anti-fungal drugs in a patient's bloodstream, will also be available here. Depending upon the findings, the doctors will be able to make an informed decision about the preferred dosage. On the other hand, it has been reported that the side effects of antifungal medicines and other issues related to them will also be studied.
As of now, more than 400 patients of black fungus have been admitted at KGMU while the disease is wreaking havoc all across the country. Given the advent of multiple fungal diseases amongst post-COVID patients, there is an urgent need to investigate and analyse the course and cause of diseases.
Currently, there are 13 such state-of-the-art-laboratories in the country and this new facility will help in upgrading the research in this sector. While the ongoing pandemic has highlighted the requirement of amplified treatment facilities, it is equally important to acknowledge the need for a better research ecosystem.
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