Bat Poop Kills 2 Cannabis Farmers In New York From 'Rare' Fungal Infections
Benzinga - Dec 18th, 2024
Two men in Rochester, New York, died after contracting a rare fungal lung infection, histoplasmosis, linked to using bat guano as fertilizer for cannabis cultivation. A report by the University of Rochester in Open Forum Infectious Diseases highlights this new risk trend among cannabis growers. The first man, a 59-year-old with pre-existing health conditions, used guano purchased online, while the second man, aged 64, used guano from a bat-infested attic. Both were hospitalized with severe symptoms and eventually succumbed to the disease. Histoplasmosis is often misdiagnosed, but it can be deadly, with symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and chest pain. The report emphasizes the need for public awareness and regulatory measures to test commercial biofertilizers for the fungus. Climate change and bat migration patterns may increase infection rates.
RATING
The article is well-structured and provides a detailed account of the cases linking bat guano use to histoplasmosis, citing relevant medical sources. However, it could benefit from attributing more information directly to sources and providing additional viewpoints.
RATING DETAILS
The article accurately reports on the link between bat guano and histoplasmosis, with information consistent with known medical facts about the disease. However, some statements, such as the impact of climate change, are not directly supported by data within the article.
The article presents the perspective of researchers and medical experts but lacks alternative viewpoints or quotes from other experts that could provide a more comprehensive understanding of the issue.
The article is clear, concise, and logically structured. It avoids emotive language and presents information in a straightforward manner, making it easy to understand for the reader.
The article cites a report from the University of Rochester and Live Science, both of which are credible. However, it does not provide direct quotes or detailed attribution, which would enhance source credibility.
While the article is clear about its main points, it does not disclose any potential affiliations or conflicts of interest that might affect the impartiality of the reporting. More transparency about the sources of information would be beneficial.