Record legionella cases in Finland linked to soil exposure

2026-03-18 - 13:11

Finland recorded more than 80 cases of legionella pneumonia in 2025, the highest annual total on record, with authorities linking many infections to contact with soil and compost products. Health officials said about half of those infected reported handling soil before falling ill, including changing potting soil or emptying compost. The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare and the Finnish Food Authority issued a warning on risks tied to dry soil and compost products after the rise in cases.