The Perils of Sewage Cleanup Health Risks and Symptoms

Cleaning up raw sewage is a necessary but potentially hazardous task that should only be undertaken by experienced professionals. Sewage contains a variety of harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause a range of illnesses, including:

Health Risks:

Gastrointestinal illnesses, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
Skin and eye infections
Respiratory infections
Bloodborne diseases, such as hepatitis and HIV

Symptoms:

Exposure to raw sewage can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Headaches
Fever
Chills
Skin rashes
Eye irritation
Difficulty breathing

Can You Get Sick From Cleaning Up Raw Sewage?

Yes, it is possible to get sick from cleaning up raw sewage. The risk of illness depends on the type of bacteria, virus, or parasite present in the sewage, as well as the amount of exposure. People who are immunocompromised or have other underlying health conditions are at an increased risk of developing severe complications from exposure to raw sewage.

Tips for Staying Safe While Cleaning Up Sewage

If you must clean up raw sewage, it is important to take precautions to protect yourself from illness. These precautions include:

Wearing protective clothing, such as gloves, a mask, and goggles
Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling sewage
Avoiding contact with your eyes, nose, or mouth
Disposing of contaminated materials properly

If you experience any symptoms after exposure to raw sewage, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.