Finland: Health officials warn about Legionella contracted from soil
Finnish health authorities (THL) and the Finnish Food Authority are warning the public about handling soil and compost products after several serious cases of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria in the elderly have been reported in Uusimaa, with soil being a likely source of infection.
To prevent Legionella bacteria from making you sick, dry soil and compost products should not be inhaled. If the bacteria get into the lungs, it can cause severe pneumonia. Infection can also be acquired through a wound on the skin.
The elderly and those with weakened immune systems are at greatest risk. Lung disease and smoking also increase the risk. Most healthy people who are exposed to Legionella bacteria do not become ill.
When handling soil and compost products, it is a good idea to follow the following instructions:
Avoid inhaling soil and compost into the air you breathe.
Protects wounds and broken skin on hands.
Use protective gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
Open the bag of soil so that the opening is facing away from your face.
If necessary, moisten the soil or compost with low water pressure, such as using a watering can.
Wash soil or compost material from tools with low water pressure.
Store soil bags out of the sun, as the internal temperature of a bag stored in the sun is ideal for the growth of legionella bacteria.
If dust cannot be reduced in any other way, FFP-2 and FFP-3 level respirators will protect against exposure. Remember to fit the respirator tightly to the face.
The Finnish Food Authority asks processors and manufacturers of soil products to ensure that consumers are provided with sufficient information on the safe handling and proper storage of soil products in connection with marketing.
In addition, the place where soil products are manufactured must ensure that workers have adequate protective equipment. To avoid the risk of legionellosis, handling dusty soil products should be avoided or sufficiently effective respiratory protection should be used. In addition, protecting hands with protective gloves is recommended.