Legionnaires, also known as legionellosis, is a type of pneumonia caused by bacteria commonly found living in potting mix, soils and compost. Photo: Getty ImagesA Dunedin man has died from Legionnaires Disease, which he is believed to have contracted from compost. Legionnaires, also known as legionellosis, is a type of pneumonia caused by bacteria commonly found living in potting mix, soils and compost. He died within a week of onset of the disease, Southern District Health Board medical officer of health Dr Anura Jayasinghe said. With the weather improving and people looking to get back out into their gardens, the man's death was a timely reminder of the potential danger of Legionnaires Disease, Dr Jayasinghe said.

Source: Otago Daily Times November 01, 2019 01:30 UTC