Who is at Risk of Legionnaires Disease?

Most healthy individuals do not contract Legionnaires Disease after being exposed to Legionella. However, the following groups are at higher risk:

• People aged 50 or older
• Current or former smokers
• Heavy drinkers
• Individuals with chronic lung diseases or respiratory issues
• People with weakened immune systems due to conditions like diabetes, cancer, or kidney failure
• Those taking medications that suppress the immune system

How is Legionnaires Disease Contracted?

Legionnaires Disease is typically contracted by breathing in contaminated dust or water droplets. Legionella bacteria thrive in moist environments, particularly at temperatures between 20-40°C. Gardeners are at risk when exposed to dust or mist from contaminated soil or potting mixes.

What Can You Do to Prevent Contracting Legionnaires Disease?

Gardeners can reduce their risk of infection by following simple precautions:

• Read all warnings on soil bags before use.
• Purchase only the amount of potting mix/compost you need to prevent the soil from drying out, which can cause dust particles to be released when the bag is opened.
• Store bags of soil out of direct sunlight to prevent them from drying out.
• Wear a dust mask when opening bags of soil, repotting plants, or gardening. Reusable masks should be stored in a sealed bag between uses and handled with clean hands.
• Wear gloves when handling soil, whether bagged or from the garden.
• Open bags of soil outside to avoid exposing yourself to dust in confined spaces such as a garage or indoor area.
• Open bags of soil slowly, directing the opening away from your face to avoid inhaling dust.
• Water dry soil gently before use to prevent dust from becoming airborne.
• Ensure soil is wet when potting plants, planting, or cultivating gardens to minimise dust.
• Water gardens and compost gently using a low-pressure hose.
• Wash hands thoroughly after handling soil and before eating, drinking, smoking, or touching your face.
• Ensure good ventilation in greenhouses, potting sheds, or indoor gardening spaces.

Symptoms of Legionnaires Disease

The incubation period for Legionnaires Disease is typically 5-6 days, but symptoms can appear as early as 2 days and up to 10 days after exposure. Common symptoms include:

• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Fever

If you experience flu-like symptoms that worsen, see a doctor immediately. Antibiotics are very effective against Legionnaires Disease if administered early.