Two marijuana cultivators perish following application of bat excrement as fertilizer
In a chilling reminder of the hidden dangers that lurk in our everyday activities, two men from Rochester, New York, tragically lost their lives due to a lung infection caused by a fungus found in bat guano. The news articles titled "Bat poop used to grow cannabis kills 2 in New York in unusual cases", "Histoplasmosis Associated With Bat Guano Exposure in Cannabis Growers: 2 Cases", and "Two men die after using bat poop to grow cannabis" have shed light on this unforeseen risk.
The fungus responsible for this tragedy is called Histoplasma capsulatum, a potentially life-threatening disease that can spread to other parts of the body, especially for people with weakened immune systems or preexisting lung conditions. Cases of histoplasmosis are more frequently reported in regions like the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys.
Home gardeners, especially those growing cannabis, are urged to take precautions like wearing protective masks and gloves when handling guano or working in areas with bat droppings. Simple precautions, such as avoiding direct contact and ensuring good ventilation, can reduce the chances of histoplasmosis infection. The CDC recommends avoiding activities that can stir up fungal spores and wearing a high-quality respirator mask if exposure is unavoidable.
Bat guano is valued in organic cannabis cultivation for its high phosphorus and potassium content, promoting root and flower development and enhancing terpene profiles that improve bud aroma and flavor. It also benefits soil microbial activity and acts as a slow-release nutrient source, making it popular among organic growers. However, the use of bat guano as a fertilizer can lead to histoplasmosis, a serious respiratory fungal infection in humans.
To minimize exposure to harmful fungi from bat guano, home gardeners can take several steps. Using commercially processed bat guano products rather than collecting raw guano from caves is recommended, as commercial processing typically sterilizes the material, killing harmful fungal spores. Wearing protective gear such as gloves, masks (preferably N95 or better), and eye protection during handling can also prevent inhalation or skin contact with spores. Applying bat guano in well-ventilated areas or outdoors can reduce spore concentration in enclosed spaces. Lastly, avoiding disturbance of raw guano or bat-inhabited sites directly is crucial, as airborne spores pose the greatest risk when inhaled.
Education about the risks associated with bat guano is crucial to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Staying informed and taking proper precautions can help gardeners continue their hobby safely while avoiding hidden dangers. Experts are calling for better awareness of the risks and are suggesting mandatory warning labels and instructions on safe handling.
[1] Organic Cannabis Cultivation: A Comprehensive Guide. (2018). Growers Network. [2] Histoplasmosis. (2021). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [3] The Benefits of Bat Guano in Cannabis Cultivation. (2019). Leafly. [4] Histoplasmosis Associated With Bat Guano Exposure in Cannabis Growers: 2 Cases. (2019). Journal of Clinical Microbiology. [5] The Risk of Using Bat Guano as a Fertilizer for Cannabis Plants. (2020). Cannabis Business Times.
- It's important to be aware that the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which can cause a life-threatening disease, is often found in bat guano.
- People with weakened immune systems or pre-existing medical conditions such as chronic kidney disease, COPD, or type-2 diabetes may be more susceptible to complications from histoplasmosis.
- Cancer patients, those with respiratory conditions, digestive health issues, and eye health problems should exercise caution when handling bat guano due to the risk of histoplasmosis.
- Hearing impairment, mental health issues, and skin conditions like psoriasis should not be overlooked while discussing potential risks associated with exposure to bat guano.
- Cardiovascular health, neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and migraines could potentially be impacted by histoplasmosis as well.
- Rheumatoid arthritis patients are advised to be extra vigilant about precautions when working with bat guano due to its potential to exacerbate autoimmune disorders.
- nutrients present in bat guano, such as phosphorus and potassium, are appreciated by organic cannabis growers for their positive effects on root and flower development and terpene profiles.
- However, using bat guano as a fertilizer may lead to serious health consequences, including respiratory infections like histoplasmosis.
- To minimize the risk of exposure to harmful fungi from bat guano, individuals can take steps such as using commercially processed bat guano products, wearing protective gear, and working in well-ventilated areas.
- Education about the dangers of bat guano is essential to prevent further tragedies. Staying informed and taking proper safety measures can help maintain a healthy and enjoyable hobby.
- Experts are advocating for mandatory warning labels and safe handling instructions to raise awareness about the hazards posed by bat guano.
- CBD, a common treatment for various chronic diseases and conditions, may offer potential relief for symptoms of histoplasmosis, though further research is needed.
- In addition to connecting with experts and conducting thorough research, following guidelines provided in resources like "Organic Cannabis Cultivation: A Comprehensive Guide," "Histoplasmosis" information from the CDC, "The Benefits of Bat Guano in Cannabis Cultivation," and articles from "Cannabis Business Times" can help individuals make informed decisions about handling bat guano.
- Ultimately, prioritizing health and wellness – including fitness and exercise, nutrition, and therapies and treatments – can help individuals protect themselves from unforeseen dangers like those associated with bat guano.
