Critical Health Alert for Cannabis Growers!

Cannabis enthusiasts and home growers, take heed! A critical health alert has emerged regarding the use of bat guano, known colloquially as bat poop, as a fertilizer. Recent reports confirm that two cannabis cultivators developed life-threatening fungal infections after using bat guano on their crops, sparking concerns within the growing community.

Findings from University of Rochester

The alarming findings were published by researchers at the University of Rochester, who detailed the cases of these two local men suffering from severe histoplasmosis, likely caused by the inhalation of spores from the guano they had applied to their cannabis plants. While exposure to bat droppings is relatively uncommon for the average person, the product is increasingly marketed online as a 'natural superfood' for cannabis cultivation due to its high nitrogen content.

Understanding Histoplasmosis

Histoplasmosis originates from the Histoplasma fungus, predominantly found in the soil of the central and eastern United States, thriving particularly in areas enriched with bird and bat feces. Typically harmless, the spores can lead to lung infections that manifest as pneumonia, presenting symptoms such as fever, chronic cough, chest discomfort, and fatigue. In some cases, particularly among individuals with compromised immune systems, the infection can escalate to a severe, life-threatening condition affecting other organs.

Details on the Affected Growers

Notably, the two affected growers exhibited significant health risks prior to the incidents, one being a 59-year-old who sourced bat guano from an online retailer, and the other, a 64-year-old who discovered a 'heavy bat infestation' in his attic. Their conditions rapidly deteriorated, leading to complications such as secondary infections and sepsis, ultimately resulting in their deaths, despite medical intervention.

Call for Awareness and Regulation

The researchers emphasize a troubling trend among cannabis farmers concerning exposure to bat guano and call for education on its risks. With the rise in cannabis cultivation following legalization in various regions, they urge for standardized testing of organic fertilizers, particularly bat guano, for pathogenic fungi before they are made available for public use. Currently, neither local nor national agencies conduct routine testing for the presence of Histoplasma capsulatum in commercially sold guano.

Urgent Message from Researchers

'This is an urgent issue,' the researchers warn. 'As cannabis cultivation continues to gain popularity, it’s essential that both growers and healthcare professionals are made aware of the dangers associated with bat guano. Preventive measures, timely diagnosis, and potential regulatory actions must be pursued.'

Conclusion