Sunday 27 November 2022 11:47 PM Death of Sydney woman to Legionnaires disease prompts urgent warning for Aussie ... trends now
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Australian gardeners have been urged to take care while handling potting mix after a Sydney woman died of Legionnaires disease.
The NSW Health Department issued the warning after a Sydney woman, aged in her 60s, died from the bacterial infection last week, after reportedly breathing in the bacteria while using potting mix.
She became gravely ill, and was rushed to hospital, but later died from the disease.
Gardeners have been urged to wear a face mask and gloves while using potting mixes, soils and mulch to avoid inhaling potentially lethal Legionella bacteria.
NSW Health Executive Director, Dr Jeremy McAnulty, said those who were older, were smokers or had a weakened immune system were more at risk of disease.
NSW Health have told gardeners to wear a face mask and gloves while handling potting mix after a Sydney woman in her 60s died from Legionnaires disease
'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.
