Men in Rochester, N.Y. die from rare fungus in bat feces used as fertilizer – study published in medical journal
Two individuals tragically lost their lives due to a rare fungal infection acquired from exposure to bat feces, commonly referred to as guano. This incident was documented in a recent publication in the medical journal Open Forum Infectious Diseases. The victims, residents of Rochester, N.Y., were not identified in the report. The medical experts revealed that both men were hospitalized and diagnosed with histoplasmosis, a type of pneumonia caused by inhaling spores of the fungus histoplasma capsulatum, commonly found in bat guano. Interestingly, the cases were unrelated, as indicated by the researchers.
The fatal spores were inhaled from the fecal matter that the men had either already used or intended to use as fertilizer for their homegrown cannabis plants. The report highlighted a concerning trend of cannabis growers being exposed to bat guano, leading to histoplasmosis cases and potential outbreaks. The researchers stressed the importance of educating both physicians and patients about the risks associated with such practices and the significance of timely diagnosis and preventive measures.
One of the deceased individuals, a 64-year-old who consumed cannabis and tobacco, disclosed a severe bat infestation in his attic, resulting in a significant accumulation of guano. He had inspected the guano multiple times and had plans to utilize it as fertilizer for his cannabis plants. Over several months, he experienced a range of symptoms, including a sodium imbalance, chronic cough, significant weight loss of 35 pounds, and severe peripheral arterial disease.
The tragic deaths of these individuals serve as a stark reminder of the potential health hazards associated with exposure to bat guano and the importance of safe agricultural practices, especially in the cultivation of cannabis. It is imperative for individuals involved in cannabis cultivation to be aware of the risks posed by such practices and to take necessary precautions to safeguard their health and well-being.
Source: The NY Times
