Two US Men Die From Rare Fungal Infection After Using Bat Guano As Fertilizer To Grow Cannabis

Two men from New York, US have reportedly succumbed to a rare fungal infection after they used bat guano or bat poop as fertilizer to grow cannabis for self use. Studies note that use of bat guano is currently on the rise among cannabis growers.

Two men from New York, United States died after using bat guano or bat poop to grow marijuana for self use. The two men aged, 59 and 74 were cultivating marijuana for and happened to use bat poop as a form of fertilizer. Reports say that they died due to a fungal infection called histoplasmosis which also leads to respiratory failure. The men, after coming in contact with bat guano reportedly inhaled spores of harmful fungus while growing cannabis. This raises serious concerns about the safety of naturally obtained bat guano and other commercially available fertilisers. This incident was highlighted earlier this month through a study published in the Journal Open Forum Infectious Diseases.

How Bat Poop Turned Deadly For Two Men Who Used It As Fertilizer To Grow Marijuana

The first man, aged 59 came into contact with bat guano after buying it online to use it as a fertilizer for marijuana. After exposure to the deadly fungus, the man started experiencing symptoms of weight loss, respiratory failure and difficulty swallowing. Reports say that he suffered from severe lung damage along with a biopsy that identified yeast consistent with Histoplasma capsulatum. The fungus Histoplasma capsulatum is commonly found in soil that is contaminated with bat or bird droppings. He did undergo treatment but as per reports his conditioned worsened right before his death.

As for the second case, it involves a man aged 64. The man was reportedly exposed to bat guano in his attic where he had stored it and intended to use it as a fertilizer. Reports say that the man suffered from lung lesions, as well as cysts in his pancreas and adrenal glands after exposure. He was also diagnosed with the same fungal infection, disseminated histoplasmosis. He eventually died because the treatments lead to the shrinking of his lesions, symptoms along with reduced blood flow to the intestines.

Both Men Had Underlying Health Problems Too

The deceased were suffering from multiple underlying health issues before they were exposed to bat guano, says reports.

The 59-year-old man was already suffering from ailments like:

• Weakened immune system
• Emphysema
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• According to reports, he was also taking Adalimumab, a medicine meant for treating rheumatoid arthritis.

The 64-year-old man was reportedly suffering from:

• Peripheral arterial disease and significant weight loss

Bat Guano Usage On The Rise Among Marijuana Growers

Bat guano or bat poop is used widely in parts of US where growing cannabis is legal. There has been a recent rise in the use if bat guano as a fertiliser for this very reason. However, this case highlights the necessity of better handling of bat guano while using it. Common people may not be aware of the side effects that it poses. Experts highlight that measures such as wearing gloves and masks must be taken while using bat guano or any other fertilisers and chemicals.