Peacocks

[Snowy]

A friend told me about this the other day - it appears to be old news so apologies if you already know, I think the first story appeared in 2010. I hadn't heard of it though.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/7978133/Potting-plants-could-cause-Legionnaires-disease.html#

[Olly]

I had heard that story before, but it's sensible to be cautious when you are gardening. I am much more careful about wearing gloves, washing hands etc since I contracted cellulitis a couple of years ago. It wasn't caused by anything in the garden, I hasten to add - it's caused by bacteria that we all have on our skin - but it made me realise that a tiny entry wound such as a scratch from a bramble thorn is enough to cause serious problems.

[Lesley]

I only found out about it recently and am being far more careful than usual.

[chuckmum6]

This could have quite an impact in our school, which does a lot of planting clubs and activities with children. is the risk a recent thing?

[Snowy]

The bug thrives in warm, moist air - hence it is usually associated with water systems. But if you think about it, a bag of warm, damp compost would provide the ideal conditions for it. As it says in the story, avoid standing directly over a bag of compost when you open it, and take care with compost that has been stored in a greenhouse as this will be warmer. It does say the risk is low, but it is worth being aware of it. If there is a risk assessment for the schools planting clubs, this should probably be on it, with the above actions advisable and classified as a low risk.

[lillybettybabs]

Never thought of that but yes it does make sense!