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Name: E. D.
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Question:
Is there any scientific proof that spagnum peat is a type of fertilizer, found in potting soil, and has been known to cause humans, such as forrestry workers and garden nursery personnel to contract a fungus known as Sporotricosis?


Replies:
There are documented reports of people getting sporotrichosis from thorny plants and hay. The most common signs are small bumps that occur at the site of cuts in the skin. A good site to get more information on this infection is from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, specifically:

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/sporotrichosis_g.htm

Dr. Hungerford


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