Are you facing a sewage backup or overflow in your home or business? It’s crucial to seek professional sewage cleanup services promptly to mitigate health risks and restore a safe environment. Raw sewage contains hazardous bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can pose serious health threats.
### Health Risks of Exposure to Raw Sewage
* **Gastrointestinal illnesses:** Ingesting contaminated water or food can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
* **Skin infections:** Contact with raw sewage can cause skin irritation, rashes, and infections.
* **Respiratory problems:** Inhaling sewage vapors can irritate the lungs and cause coughing, shortness of breath, and pneumonia.
* **Eye infections:** Eye contact with contaminated water can lead to conjunctivitis and other eye infections.
* **Serious infections:** In severe cases, exposure to sewage can result in life-threatening infections such as hepatitis A and E. coli.
### Can You Get Sick from Cleaning Up Raw Sewage?
Yes, it is possible to become ill from cleaning up raw sewage. The risk is particularly high if:
* You have open wounds or cuts on your skin.
* You inhale sewage vapors or mist.
* You are not wearing proper protective gear.
### Symptoms of Sewage Exposure
Symptoms of sewage exposure can vary depending on the severity of exposure and the individual’s health. Common symptoms include:
* Nausea and vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Abdominal pain
* Fever and chills
* Skin irritation
* Coughing
* Shortness of breath
* Eye pain and redness
### Professional Sewage Cleanup Services
To ensure the safety of your family or employees, it is essential to hire a reputable sewage cleanup company. These professionals:
* Use specialized equipment to remove sewage and contaminated materials.
* Properly dispose of sewage to prevent contamination of the environment.
* Disinfect and sanitize the affected area to eliminate harmful bacteria.
* Provide recommendations for preventing future sewage backups or overflows.
### Conclusion
If you encounter a sewage backup or overflow, do not attempt to clean it up yourself. Call a professional sewage cleanup service to minimize health risks and restore your property to a safe and habitable condition.