| Popis: |
A case control study was performed in South Australia to determine if Legionella longbeachae infection was associated with recent handling of commercial potting mix and to examine possible modes of transmission. Recent use of potting mix was associated with illness (odds ratio [OR] 4.74; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.65 to 13.55; P=0.004) in bivariate analysis. This chapter suggests there are other factors within the gardening environment, as well as intrinsic and behavioral host factors, that are better predictors of L. longbeachae infection than recent use of potting mix. An association between illness and proximity to dripping, hanging pots supports inhalation of contaminated aerosols produced during watering as a possible mode of transmission. Another possible mode of transmission is ingestion of organisms via contaminated hands, which is supported by the association between illness and eating or drinking after gardening before washing hands. Further information on risk factors for L. longbeachae infection that explores the interface between potting mix, other gardening exposures, and behaviors while gardening need to be addressed in a larger study. Long-term smokers and possibly people with preexisting medical conditions such as respiratory and cardiac illness should be warned about their increased risk of L. longbeachae infection. Raising people’s awareness of a possible health risk when using potting mix should continue in order to protect against L. longbeachae infection. |
