Health Risks and Symptoms of Sewage Cleanup

Sewage cleanup is a hazardous task that can pose serious health risks to those who perform it. Sewage contains a variety of harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause illness if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Symptoms of sewage exposure can include:

• Skin irritation and rashes
• Respiratory problems, such as coughing and wheezing
• Gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Eye irritation and infections
• Fever and chills

Can You Get Sick from Cleaning Up Raw Sewage?

Yes, it is possible to get sick from cleaning up raw sewage. The bacteria, viruses, and parasites in sewage can cause a variety of illnesses, including:

• Gastrointestinal illnesses, such as E. coli and salmonella
• Respiratory illnesses, such as Legionnaires' disease
• Skin infections, such as cellulitis
• Eye infections, such as conjunctivitis
• Meningitis
• Hepatitis

If you are exposed to raw sewage, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of sewage exposure can take several hours or even days to develop, so it is important to be aware of the risks and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms.

How to Protect Yourself from Health Risks

There are a number of steps you can take to protect yourself from the health risks associated with sewage cleanup:

• Wear protective clothing, such as gloves, a mask, and boots.
• Do not eat or drink anything while cleaning up sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after cleaning up sewage.
• Avoid contact with your eyes and nose while cleaning up sewage.
• If you do get sewage in your eyes or nose, flush them with water immediately.

By following these precautions, you can help to reduce your risk of illness from sewage exposure.