What Diseases Can You Get From Sewage Exposure at Home?

Sewage contains a mix of human waste, water, and microorganisms. When it backs up into your home, you can come into contact with pathogens that cause illness. The most common problems are gastrointestinal infections, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, often from bacteria like E. Coli or Salmonella. Hepatitis A, a liver infection, can also spread through sewage-contaminated water or food.

Other risks include leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that can cause fever and kidney damage, and tetanus, which enters through cuts or wounds. Skin contact can lead to rashes, boils, or fungal infections. If sewage sits for a while, mold can grow, triggering respiratory issues like asthma attacks or allergic reactions. The severity varies by person, so you should treat any exposure seriously.

Your first step is to avoid contact with sewage water. Turn off the water source if you can, and keep children and pets away from the affected area. Wear protective gear like rubber boots, gloves, and a mask if you must enter the space. Do not eat, drink, or touch your face until you have washed thoroughly with soap and clean water.

Ventilate the area by opening windows and using fans to reduce moisture. Remove any porous items like carpets, drywall, or upholstery that soaked up sewage, as they are hard to clean fully. Disinfect hard surfaces with a bleach solution, but never mix bleach with ammonia. After cleanup, wash all exposed clothing separately in hot water.

You should see a doctor if you experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or skin irritation after sewage exposure. These could be signs of an infection that needs treatment. Tell the doctor about the exposure so they can run the right tests. Early medical care can prevent complications, especially for vulnerable individuals.

Do not wait to see if symptoms pass, as some infections can become serious. If you have a wound that came into contact with sewage, clean it immediately and watch for signs of infection like redness or swelling. Tetanus shots are important, so check your vaccination status. For any severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or signs of dehydration, seek emergency care.