Sewers are designed to safely dispose of human waste, but when they’re not properly maintained or designed, they can become contaminated with bacteria and viruses that cause illness or death. Sewer systems that are improperly constructed or maintained may release untreated wastewater into our waterways without warning signs. 

Sink and tub backups, overflowing toilets, backed-up floor drains, and overflowing septic tanks are the most common sources of exposure to raw sewage today. This can lead to environmental pollution and serious health risks for people who come in contact with the contaminated water. The following are some of the health risks associated with sewage exposure:

Gastrointestinal Conditions

Exposure to sewage can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Ingesting or inhaling sewage can also cause gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Gastroenteritis can lead to dehydration if it does not resolve quickly with treatment.

Parasitic Infections

Sewage is known to contain parasites such as cryptosporidium parvum and giardia lamblia. These parasites can cause serious infections in humans if they are ingested through drinking contaminated water or eating unwashed fruits and vegetables grown near sewage runoff sites. Symptoms of parasitic infections include diarrhea, stomach cramps, dehydration, and fever.

Bacterial Infections

Sewage-contaminated water can lead to bacterial infections that cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The most frequent bacteria found in sewage are E. coli and Campylobacter jejuni, which can cause illness if consumed through polluted water or food. Other common bacterial infections include salmonella, shigella, and vibrio vulnificus.

Viral Infections

Many viruses thrive in sewage, such as hepatitis A virus (HAV), enteroviruses like rotavirus, norovirus, and adenoviruses. These viruses can be spread through direct contact with human feces, drinking contaminated water, or eating food contaminated with sewage. Young children have poorer immune systems than adults and are more susceptible to suffering sewage-related virus illnesses. 

Pulmonary Conditions

Sewage contains bacteria that can be breathed into your lungs. Bacteria in sewage can cause respiratory infections like pneumonia and bronchitis. If you have an immune system disorder or weakened immune system due to other illnesses, these respiratory infections may be more severe and difficult to treat.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Family From Sewage Exposure

Taking good care of your plumbing is one of the best methods to limit your risk of sewage exposure. We recommend that you avoid dumping grease, oils, or fats down your kitchen sink. Diapers, paper towels, wet wipes, sanitary napkins, and other things that do not break up rapidly should not be flushed. It would also be beneficial to utilize a hair catcher in your showers and bathtubs.

When it comes to sewage, we know you have a lot on your plate. That’s why we’re here to help. At Bueno Plumbing, we take pride in our work and commitment to excellence. Our professional plumbers have extensive experience with all types of septic systems, so you can trust us to handle your sewage issues quickly and efficiently. We’ll take care of the problem and maintain your home healthy as it should be. Call us at (408) 440-2728!