Two men in Rochester, New York died after developing histoplasmosis, a rare fungal lung infection caused by inhaling spores from bat feces.
The men were using bat guano — known for its nutrient-rich properties — as fertilizer for their marijuana plants. While bat guano is a popular organic fertilizer, it can sometimes harbor Histoplasma capsulatum, a fungus that thrives in bird and bat droppings.
Also of note, both men had preexisting health issues, including histories of tobacco and marijuana smoking, which made them especially vulnerable to infection.
One sourced bat guano online, while the other also unknowingly exposed himself to bat droppings from an attic infestation. Symptoms of the infection included severe breathing problems and rapid weight loss, which ultimately led to their deaths despite medical intervention.
While histoplasmosis is rare and only fatal in about 5% of severe cases, these incidents highlight the risks of improper handling of organic fertilizers. Growers are advised to use protective gear and sterilized products to avoid exposure to harmful spores.
Peoplesmind
