Sewage backups can be a major health hazard, posing serious risks to your health and your family’s well-being. The raw sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, which can cause a variety of illnesses, including:
- Gastrointestinal problems, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
- Skin infections, such as rashes, blisters, and boils
- Respiratory problems, such as coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing
- Eye infections, such as conjunctivitis and pink eye
- More serious illnesses, such as hepatitis A, typhoid fever, and dysentery
The symptoms of sewage backup exposure can vary depending on the type of bacteria or virus that is present. Some symptoms may appear within a few hours of exposure, while others may take days or even weeks to develop. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above after being exposed to sewage, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Is it safe to stay in a house with sewage backup?
No, it is not safe to stay in a house with sewage backup. The raw sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, which can cause a variety of illnesses. Even if you do not experience any symptoms, you could still be at risk of infection. It is important to evacuate the house immediately and contact a sewage cleanup service to have the backup cleaned up and disinfected.
Additional tips for staying safe after a sewage backup:
- Avoid contact with the sewage water.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after coming into contact with sewage.
- Do not eat or drink anything that has come into contact with sewage.
- Ventilate the house by opening windows and doors.
- Contact a sewage cleanup service to have the backup cleaned up and disinfected as soon as possible.
By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of illness from sewage exposure.