Warmer weather and daylight saving bring many Kiwis out into the garden.

Unfortunately, this is also the time when gardeners are most at risk of contracting Legionnaires’ disease from bags or bulk loads of potting mix and compost. 

With 108 disease cases confirmed nationwide this year, Health New Zealand urges gardeners to take care. 

“Bagged potting mix and compost can contain Legionella bacteria, which, when breathed in, can cause Legionnaires’ disease," Medical Officer of Health for the National Public Health Service, Dr Cheryl Brunton, said. 

“This disease is a type of pneumonia, which can be severe and in some cases life-threatening.” 

Across the country, there is typically a spike in cases of Legionnaires’ disease in spring that can be associated with increased gardening activity and warmer weather. 

The illness may be mild but can sometimes be fatal. It is more common in older people, particularly if they smoke, have poor immunity or have a chronic illness. However, even healthy young people have died from Legionella pneumonia.

Symptoms include a ‘flu-like’ illness, with a dry cough, high fever, chills, shortness of breath, muscle aches, headaches, and diarrhoea. If you have these symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider right away for advice and let them know you have been handling potting mix or compost. 

“Legionnaires’ disease is a very serious illness and following these simple steps can be lifesaving,” said Dr Brunton.

• Work with potting mix or compost in a well-ventilated outdoor area 
• Wear a well-fitting face mask. An N95 or respirator is best 
• Wear gloves when handling potting mix or compost 
• Open potting mix or compost bags carefully using scissors and open them 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.