Afghan health authorities have warned of surging cases of mucormycosis, also known as "black fungus," among coronavirus patients as the war-ravaged country grapples with a shortage of vaccines and oxygen, reports Anadolu Agency.

Health minister Waheed Majorh said that health professionals had identified at least three confirmed cases of the fungal infection caused by exposure to mucor mould, commonly found in soil, plants, manure, and decaying fruits and vegetables.

The condition mainly affects people who have a weak immune system causing loss of eyesight, removal of the nose and jaw bone.

"The raging war is on one side and the pandemic on the other side. For God's sake, avoid gatherings and obey safety measures," he urged people.

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