Black fungus what do we know about it? Knowledge, attitude and practice of health care professionals in Iraq

Abstract

Background: Black fungus is a serious infectious disease caused by mucoromycetes. The first cases of black fungus among patients with COVID-19 were reported in India in December 2020, followed by new cases in other countries like Iraq. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of healthcare professionals (HCPs) toward black fungus. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, in which HCPs who are members of the Iraqi syndicate of physicians, dentists, and pharmacists from different Iraqi cities participated in this online survey between the 11 th of September and the 11 th of November 2021. Results: In total 340 HCPs participated in this study. 55% of participating HCPs had a poor level of knowledge. 52% of participating HCPs thought that COVID-19 vaccination could protect the person from black fungus disease. 44% of the participating HCPs thought that black fungus can be prevented in COVID-19 patients through the wise use of steroids and good glycemic control in diabetic patients. 96% of HCPs thought that the best management plan for black fungus includes antifungal therapy plus surgery. Conclusions: Although the majority of HCPs have general information about black fungus, the level of knowledge regarding different aspects of the disease is poor. Iraqi HCPs required more comprehensive educational programs to increase their knowledge of black fungus and other infectious diseases.