Health Risks and Symptoms of Sewage Contamination
Topic: Health Risks and Symptoms
When sewage systems fail or are disrupted, raw sewage can spill into homes, businesses, and the environment. This can pose a serious health risk to people who come into contact with the contaminated water.
How does sewage affect human health?
Sewage contains a variety of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can cause a wide range of illnesses. These illnesses can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, they can be fatal.
- Gastrointestinal illnesses: These illnesses are the most common type of illness caused by sewage contamination. They can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain.
- Respiratory illnesses: These illnesses can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and fever.
- Skin and eye infections: These infections can occur if sewage comes into contact with the skin or eyes.
- More serious illnesses: In some cases, sewage contamination can lead to more serious illnesses, such as meningitis, encephalitis, and hepatitis. These illnesses can be life-threatening.
How to protect yourself from sewage contamination
There are a number of things you can do to protect yourself from sewage contamination, including:
- Avoid contact with sewage-contaminated water.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coming into contact with sewage-contaminated water or objects.
- Do not eat or drink anything that has been contaminated with sewage.
- Get vaccinated against diseases that can be spread through sewage contamination.
- If you have any symptoms of a sewage-related illness, see your doctor immediately.
Sewage Cleanup Service
If your home or business has been contaminated with sewage, it is important to have it cleaned up by a professional sewage cleanup service. Sewage cleanup services have the training and experience to safely and effectively clean up sewage spills and protect your health.
Symptoms of Sewage Contamination
The symptoms of sewage contamination can vary depending on the type of microorganisms present in the sewage. However, some common symptoms include:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
If you experience any of these symptoms after being exposed to sewage, it is important to see a doctor immediately.