What Diseases Can You Get From Sewage Backup Exposure?

Sewage contains numerous pathogens that can cause severe stomach and intestinal problems. If you accidentally ingest contaminated water or food, you risk developing gastroenteritis, which brings vomiting and diarrhea. Salmonella and E. Coli infections are also common, leading to cramping and fever. These bacteria thrive in the nutrient-rich environment of raw sewage, making any contact a significant health hazard.

Giardiasis and cryptosporidiosis are parasitic infections spread through sewage exposure. They cause prolonged digestive distress, including watery diarrhea and abdominal pain. These parasites have protective shells, allowing them to survive in the environment for weeks. Proper hygiene and avoiding contaminated areas are your first defenses, but professional cleanup is the only way to eliminate the source of these pathogens.

Direct skin contact with sewage water can cause infections, especially through cuts or scrapes. Bacteria like Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, common in waste, can lead to cellulitis, a painful skin infection. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and warmth around the affected area. Always wear protective gloves and clothing if you must be near the contamination, and wash any exposed skin immediately with soap and water.

More serious wound infections can develop if sewage enters a deeper cut. Tetanus is a risk if you are not up to date on vaccinations, as the bacteria Clostridium tetani lives in soil and feces. Any puncture wound exposed to sewage should be medically evaluated. Keep a first aid kit handy and understand that avoiding the contaminated area entirely is the safest course of action.

Only specialized cleaning addresses the full scope of sewage contamination. The pros have industrial-grade equipment to extract water, remove unsalvageable materials, and thoroughly disinfect surfaces. They follow strict protocols for handling Category 3 water, which is grossly contaminated. This process is not a typical mopping job; it requires technical knowledge to ensure the home is truly safe for habitation again.

The cleanup process involves multiple steps: containment, removal, drying, and verification. Professionals use moisture meters and thermal imaging to find hidden dampness in walls and subfloors. They then apply antimicrobial agents to inhibit future mold and bacterial growth. This systematic approach is the only reliable way to prevent lingering odors and the long-term health risks associated with improper sewage cleanup.