7 tips for safely using potting mix this spring

Bagged and bulk loads of potting mix and compost can contain Legionella bacteria. The bacteria can cause Legionnaires’ disease when the soil particles are breathed in.

Typically, there’s an increase in Legionnaires’ disease cases in spring, associated with increased gardening activity brought on by warmer weather. More than 100 cases of Legionnaires’ disease have already been confirmed in New Zealand this year.

Medical officer of health for the National Public Health Service Dr Cheryl Brunton said the disease is a type of pneumonia and can be severe and in some cases life threatening.

Symptoms include a dry cough, high fever, chills, shortness of breath, muscle aches, headaches and diarrhoea.

Legionnaires’ disease is more common in older people, particularly smokers, and people with poor immunity or a chronic illness, although healthy young people have also died from Legionella pneumonia.

Legionella bacteria can also develop in contaminated water and New Zealand cases have been linked to contaminated spa pools. Keeping your spa water clean will reduce the risk.

7 tips to safely use potting mix and compost

• Work with potting mix or compost in a well-ventilated outdoor area.
• Wear a well-fitting face mask. An N95 or respirator mask is best.
• Wear gloves when handling potting mix or compost.
• Open potting mix or compost bags carefully using scissors. Open the bag away from your face.
• Reduce dust by dampening down the potting mix or compost before using it.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling potting mix or compost and before touching your face or removing your mask.
  
• If you develop symptoms after you’ve been handling potting mix or compost, contact your health provider immediately and let them know you’ve been handling potting mix or compost.