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News > News > Gardeners protect your health this Spring
Gardeners protect your health this Spring
22 Sep 2009
IF you plan to handle potting mix and/or soil soon, you should take steps to reduce your risk of catching potentially life-threatening Legionnaire’s disease.
Each Spring the Department of Health receives notifications of community members contracting the bacteria Legionella longbeachae.
Found naturally in the environment, the bacteria can be hazardous when breathing in aerosols from potting mixes, gardening soils, mulches, composts and soil conditioners.
The symptoms of Legionnaire’s disease include fever, chills, aching muscles and joints, dry cough, severe headache, lethargy, appetite loss and shortness of breath which may develop two to 10 days after exposure.
Legionnaire’s disease can potentially be life-threatening in immuno-compromised persons and smokers. If you suspect you have the disease it is important to see your doctor.
All potting mixes and gardening soils should have a warning label on them and it is important to follow the instructions for use such as wearing gloves, keeping the mixture damp, avoid inhaling particles and washing your hands after use.
If you think you may be at greater risk of getting a Legionella infection it is recommended someone else handle the soil for you.
For more details, phone Media and Public Relations Officer Merryn McLean on 9432 9827 or 0405 307 141 or email merrynm@fremantle.wa.gov.au
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