Killed by Potting Mix: Woman dies after breathing in deadly bacteria while doing the gardening

Australian gardeners have been warned to take care while handling potting mix after a Sydney woman died of Legionnaires disease.

The NSW Health Department issued the warning after the woman, aged in her 60s, died after reportedly breathing in bacteria while using potting mix.

She became gravely ill and was rushed to hospital but later died.

‘Wetting the potting mix first also helps prevent any contaminated potting mix dust blowing up into the air and being inhaled,’ Dr McAnulty said.

‘Even if you’ve been wearing gloves, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap before eating or drinking as the bacteria could still be there.’

Experts say it’s important to always wear gloves and a face mask when gardening.

The potentially deadly bacteria, known as legionella, can multiply in soil products.

Symptoms can include fever, chills, shortness of breath, cough and muscle aches and can develop up to 10 days after exposure to the bacteria.

In some cases, the disease can develop into potentially fatal pneumonia, which is usually treated with antibiotics in hospital.

A more common type of Legionnaires is caused by a different strain of bacteria usually found in contaminated air cooling systems on large buildings.

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