Two men tragically passed away after attempting to use bat guano (droppings) as fertilizer for their cannabis plants. The men contracted histoplasmosis, a serious respiratory condition caused by the Histoplasma capsulatum fungus found in bat feces. Researchers have highlighted the growing use of guano as a fertilizer in cannabis cultivation, raising concerns about public safety.
One victim, a 59-year-old man with underlying health issues like emphysema and arthritis, began showing symptoms such as weight loss and difficulty breathing. Despite being treated for pneumonia and bacterial infections, his condition deteriorated, leading to respiratory failure. His tissue samples confirmed fungal infection due to histoplasma.
The second victim had reportedly been exposed to heavy infestations of bats in his attic. Using the guano as fertilizer, he developed a chronic cough and a condition restricting blood flow. After treatment for abdominal pain, he passed away from complications affecting his intestines.
Experts warn that bat guano, though marketed as a biofertilizer, can carry significant health risks. They urge manufacturers to test products for fungi and implement risk mitigation strategies to prevent outbreaks of histoplasmosis, which remains rare but dangerous.
