The short answer
Common Bacterial Infections from Sewage
Sewage contains numerous bacteria that can cause serious illness. Escherichia coli (E. Coli) can lead to severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Salmonella infection also causes similar gastrointestinal distress. Another concern is Leptospirosis, which can affect the liver and kidneys. These bacteria enter the body through cuts in the skin or if contaminated water is accidentally swallowed.
Immediate symptoms of a bacterial infection may include fever, nausea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, these infections can require hospitalization. It is critical to avoid any direct contact with sewage water. If you must be in the area, wear waterproof boots, gloves, and protective eyewear to create a barrier between you and the contaminants.
- E. Coli causes severe gastrointestinal illness.
- Salmonella leads to fever and diarrhea.
- Leptospirosis can damage the liver and kidneys.
- Campylobacteriosis results in inflammatory diarrhea.
- Shigellosis causes dysentery with bloody stools.
- These infections spread via skin contact or ingestion.
Viral and Parasitic Health Risks
Viruses present in sewage pose a significant health threat. Hepatitis A virus attacks the liver, leading to jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Norovirus is highly contagious and causes sudden onset vomiting and diarrhea, often described as stomach flu. Rotavirus, while more common in children, can also affect adults exposed to contaminated environments.
Parasites are another concern from sewage exposure. Giardia lamblia causes giardiasis, marked by prolonged diarrhea and gas. Cryptosporidium leads to cryptosporidiosis, with symptoms lasting for weeks. These parasites form hardy cysts that survive in the environment, making thorough cleanup and disinfection essential to prevent ongoing risk in your home.
How Mold Growth Adds to the Danger
After a sewage backup, persistent moisture creates perfect conditions for mold. Mold spores begin growing within 24 to 48 hours on wet drywall, insulation, and flooring. This mold is not directly from sewage, but its rapid growth introduces new health hazards. Inhaling mold spores can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory issues.
Common symptoms from mold exposure include coughing, wheezing, throat irritation, and nasal congestion. People with allergies or compromised immune systems are at greater risk. Effective structural drying is crucial to stop mold from becoming a secondary health problem in your home.
Immediate Safety Steps to Take
Your first priority is to avoid contact with the contaminated water. Turn off electricity to the affected area at the breaker panel if it is safe to do so. Keep children and pets far away from the spill. Do not use household fans, as they can aerosolize contaminants and spread them through the air.
Ventilate the area by opening windows if weather permits. Change out of any clothing that touched the sewage and wash it separately in hot water. Shower thoroughly with soap and water. If you have any open wounds that were exposed, clean them immediately and monitor for signs of infection like redness or swelling.
- Avoid all contact with sewage water.
- Secure the area from children and pets.
- Turn off electricity if it is safe.
- Do not use standard household fans.
- Ventilate the space by opening windows.
- Shower and wash exposed clothing immediately.
Professional Cleanup and Your Health
Due to the severe biohazards, sewage cleanup is not a do-it-yourself task. Local water damage pros have the training and specialized equipment for proper sanitation. They follow strict protocols to remove sewage, clean affected surfaces with hospital-grade disinfectants, and safely dispose of contaminated materials that cannot be salvaged, like porous flooring and drywall.
This process is critical for eliminating the disease sources from your home. The pros also use industrial air scrubbers and dehumidifiers to remove moisture and airborne contaminants. After they complete the cleanup, the space should be safe for re-entry. If you start to feel unwell with symptoms like fever or diarrhea after exposure, see a doctor promptly.
Talk to someone now
Call (253) 785-9361 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (253) 785-9361Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to get sick from touching sewage water?
Yes, touching sewage water can make you sick. Harmful bacteria and viruses can enter your body through cuts, scrapes, or by accidentally transferring to your mouth. Always wear heavy-duty gloves and protective clothing if you must be near it, and wash thoroughly afterward.
How long after exposure do symptoms appear?
Symptoms can appear quickly or take days. Gastrointestinal illnesses from bacteria often start within hours to three days. Viral infections like Hepatitis A may not show symptoms for weeks. Watch for signs like fever, stomach cramps, or diarrhea and consult a doctor if they develop.
Does homeowners insurance cover sewage cleanup?
Coverage depends on the cause of the backup. Sudden issues like a pipe burst may be covered, while neglect often is not. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Contact your insurance company promptly to start the claims process and understand your policy.