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Gardeners are being warned to guard against Legionnaires’ disease after five people in the upper South Island were hospitalized with it this month.
Potting mix is the most common source of Legionella bacteria, but it is also present in compost.
Photo: 123RF
Nelson Marlborough Health said that four were in the Tasman district and one in Marlborough, and that all the patients had recently purchased and used potting mix, compost, or both.
Clinical Director of Public Health Dr. Stephen Bridgman said Legionnaires’ disease is a serious but preventable disease that can cause pneumonia and, in some cases, can be fatal.
Those hospitalized had a stay of between five and 21 days.
Dr Bridgman said that potting mix was the most common source of Legionella bacteria, but it was also present in compost, improperly treated spa pools, and hot water cylinders that were not set to a minimum of 60 ° C.
Those most at risk of serious illness from Legionnaires’ disease are those over 50, those who smoke, have chronic diseases that suppress immunity, and do not take recommended preventive measures when using potting soil or compost.
Dr. Bridgman said the actual number of people infected with Legionnaires is likely higher because tests are generally only done if someone is sick enough to be admitted to the hospital.
Less severe cases could resemble the flu or even Covid-19, but unlike these viral diseases, Legionnaires cannot be transmitted from person to person, but are contracted by inhaling soil or compost dust.
“Recent cases in our region have been linked to soil, compost, or potting mix while gardening without using proper protection.
“At this time of year, when people are entering their gardens more, we urge people to be careful when handling these products and to follow advice to reduce their risk, in particular the use of masks to avoid inhalation of bacteria when handle pots. mix or compost, “said Dr. Bridgman.
There have been 71 cases in the Nelson-Marlborough region since 2010 and 10 cases in total have been confirmed to date this year.
The first symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease can appear two to 14 days after exposure and are similar to the flu. Symptoms include: fever and chills, flu-like symptoms and cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, headaches and stomach aches, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Anyone with these symptoms should seek health advice immediately by contacting their GP or Healthline, and letting them know that you have been handling potting soil, soil, or compost recently.
Early treatment is effective.
