View of mucormycosis during the era of COVID-19 infection: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: During the coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic, the diagnosis of mucormycosis co-infection has become challenging as it is sometimes misdiagnosed or even undiagnosed. Many factors contribute to acquiring such infections. These factors vary but their main reason for getting such infections is being immunocompromised. Thus, it results in weak host immunity to fight and prevent such co-infection. Objectives: This study aims to assess the knowledge perception among the general population in Saudi Arabia regarding black fungus and its relationship with the global pandemic COVID-19. Materials and Methods: A prospective, qualitative, questionnaire-based cross-sectional study took place. The obtained data were statistically analyzed using SPSS version 21. Results: The study included 1138 participants, 31.5% from southern region, 27.8% from Eastern region, 22.2% from north region, 12.2% from Western region, and 6.3% from Central region. The participant's mean age was 27.1 ± 11.9 years old. A good knowledge level was detected among 35% of female respondents compared to 28.9% of males with reported statistical significance (P =0.036). All other factors including age, education, and work were insignificantly associated with public knowledge level. Conclusions: A considerable percentage of the current study population had poor knowledge level of perception and awareness regarding mucormycosis in relation to COVID-19.