Histoplasmosis Deaths Linked to Bat Guano Use

Two men from Rochester, New York, died after contracting histoplasmosis, a rare fungal lung infection, from using bat guano as fertilizer for growing cannabis. The infection, caused by inhaling spores of the Histoplasma capsulatum fungus found in bat droppings, is typically endemic to the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys but is increasingly reported across the US. One victim, aged 59, purchased the guano online, while the other, aged 64, collected it from a bat-infested attic. Despite receiving antifungal treatment, both succumbed to severe symptoms, including chronic cough, significant weight loss, and respiratory failure. The incidents highlight the health risks associated with using bat guano, which is marketed as a 'superfood' for cannabis cultivation. Experts urge increased public awareness and safety measures to prevent similar tragedies as home cannabis cultivation becomes more widespread.