Two US men have died from a rare fungal infection after using bat guano as fertilizer for cannabis plants. The men, aged 59 and 64, developed histoplasmosis, a lung infection caused by inhaling spores from bat droppings.
The men had purchased the guano online or collected it from their homes, intending to use it as a natural fertilizer. However, they unknowingly exposed themselves to Histoplasma capsulatum, a fungus commonly found in bat and bird droppings.
Symptoms of histoplasmosis include chronic cough, high fever, severe weight loss, and blood poisoning. Despite medical treatment, neither man survived. The case highlights the increasing prevalence of histoplasmosis across the US, with an estimated one to two cases per 100,000 people reported annually.
Experts warn that improper handling of guano poses significant health risks and emphasize the need for public awareness and stringent safety measures. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against disturbing environments with large amounts of bat or bird droppings and recommends professional removal services to minimize exposure risks.
Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/trending/us-men-lose-their-lives-after-using-bat-poop-as-fertiliser-for-cannabis-plants-101734440859164.html