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Gardening is a popular pastime in New Zealand, and especially so in the Garden City. There are a number of things that can adversely affect your health when gardening, (sun, bees, tetanus, strains from lifting to name a few) and Legionnaires is definitely one of those. With peak gardening season upon us, there are more people out and about in the garden planting veggies and flowers, and tidying up outside ready for Christmas. At times we can get so busy that we rush through in a hurry trying to get everything done and forget to put on our gloves and masks. It is important that you take the time to protect yourself when you are gardening. Whether you are young or old, a new gardener or an expert, we strongly recommend that you follow all of the safety warnings and advice when handling any bagged or bulk potting mix, veggie mix, compost as well as any other form of growing mix.
Legionellosis (Legionnaire’s disease) is a form of pneumonia, and is caused by a bacteria called Legionella found in moist conditions in the environment. You can catch the disease by inhaling airborne droplets or particles that contain the bacteria. The illness can present itself in mild or severe cases, and can sometimes be fatal. It is more common in elderly people, particularly if they smoke, have poor immunity, or are already ill. Here are some tips to reduce your chances of contracting this disease.
- Read the warning labels on bags of compost and potting mixes
- Wear gloves when handling soils, mulches, composts and potting mixes
- Wear a dust mask if you are using these mixes indoors, or if it is windy
- Dampen mixes before using them
- Always open bags away from your face
Please take the time to read over the information found in the following links. They are very informative, and give you great advice on what to do in the garden to keep yourself safe, as well as what you should do if you feel that you might have contracted the disease.
Gear up against Legionella is a CDHB initiative that aims to educate gardeners about the effects of Legionnaires and how to protect yourself.
Take a look here for more information www.cdhb.health.nz/gear-up-against-legionella
Worksafe NZ have some great information you can read about HERE
Safer and Healthier Gardening
Information on garden safety and reducing risks when gardening. Covers a range of topics including legionella, tetanus, spider bites, poisonous plants, bee stings, and melanoma.
Gardening is one of the most popular leisure activities in New Zealand. It lets people enjoy nature and grow their own produce.
Go Gardening
A type of Legionella bacteria, which is commonly found in the environment, is one of these. It has been shown to cause Legionnaires’ disease in a few people.
This guide provides some simple and natural steps that all gardeners can take to reduce risk while continuing to enjoy their garden.