Sewage cleanup is a necessary but potentially hazardous task. Sewage contains a variety of harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause a number of health problems.
**Health Risks of Sewage Cleanup**
The most common health risks associated with sewage cleanup are:
– Skin infections – Sewage can contain a variety of bacteria that can cause skin infections, such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Shigella. These bacteria can enter the body through cuts or open sores, and can cause symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, and drainage.
– Respiratory infections – Sewage can also contain a variety of viruses that can cause respiratory infections, such as the flu, common cold, and pneumonia. These viruses can be inhaled or ingested, and can cause symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and fever.
– Gastrointestinal infections – Sewage can also contain a variety of bacteria and parasites that can cause gastrointestinal infections, such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Shigella. These bacteria can be ingested through contaminated food or water, and can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
**Symptoms of Sewage Exposure**
The symptoms of sewage exposure can vary depending on the type of bacteria or virus that is involved. Some of the most common symptoms include:
– Skin irritation – Redness, swelling, pain, and drainage from the skin
– Respiratory symptoms – Coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and fever
– Gastrointestinal symptoms – Diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
– Headache
– Fatigue
– Malaise
**Can You Get Sick from Cleaning Up Raw Sewage?**
Yes, you can get sick from cleaning up raw sewage. The bacteria and viruses in sewage can enter the body through cuts or open sores, or can be inhaled or ingested. Symptoms of sewage exposure can range from mild to severe, and can include skin infections, respiratory infections, gastrointestinal infections, headache, fatigue, and malaise.
**If You Are Exposed to Sewage**
If you are exposed to sewage, it is important to:
– Wash your hands and any other exposed skin with soap and water as soon as possible.
– If you have any cuts or open sores, cover them with a bandage.
– Avoid touching your face or mouth.
– If you have any symptoms of sewage exposure, such as skin irritation, respiratory symptoms, or gastrointestinal symptoms, see a doctor immediately.