You can become infected by breathing in dust or small water droplets from compost and potting mix.
There have been 29 confirmed nationwide cases of legionnaire’s disease in the first weeks of January. Three infected people in the Hutt Valley were hospitalised with pneumonia.
Legionnaire’s disease is caused by common Legionella bacteria, which can live in the compost, potting mix and garden soils. These simple steps when gardening can stop you getting infected:
- Open potting mix and compost bags carefully with scissors, rather than ripping the bag open.
- Wear a disposable face mask and gloves when working with potting mix and/or compost, and avoid putting your hands near your face.
- Thoroughly wash hands after working with soil, potting mix or compost.
- Water the garden and potted plants using a gentle spray, if gardening in glasshouses ensure they are well ventilated.
Further information on Legionnaires disease can be found here.
