Sewage cleanup is a critical service that protects public health and the environment. However, it is important to be aware of the health risks associated with exposure to raw sewage.

### Can You Get Sick From Cleaning Up Raw Sewage?

Yes, cleaning up raw sewage can cause illness due to exposure to harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

### Health Risks

Exposure to raw sewage can cause a range of health effects, depending on the type of contaminants present and the duration and severity of exposure. Some common health risks include:

– **Infectious diseases**: Raw sewage can contain pathogens that cause infectious diseases, such as gastrointestinal illnesses, respiratory infections, and skin infections.
– **Skin irritation**: Contact with raw sewage can irritate the skin, causing redness, itching, and rashes.
– **Eye irritation**: Raw sewage can irritate the eyes, causing redness, tearing, and pain.
– **Respiratory problems**: Inhaling fumes or aerosols from raw sewage can irritate the respiratory system, causing coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
– **Long-term health effects**: Repeated or prolonged exposure to raw sewage has been linked to an increased risk of certain health conditions, such as asthma, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer.

### Symptoms

Symptoms of exposure to raw sewage can vary depending on the type of contaminants present and the individual’s sensitivity. Some common symptoms include:

– **Gastrointestinal problems**: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
– **Respiratory problems**: Coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing
– **Skin irritation**: Redness, itching, rashes
– **Eye irritation**: Redness, tearing, pain
– **General symptoms**: Headache, fatigue, fever

### Precautions

To protect yourself from the health risks associated with sewage cleanup, it is important to take precautions:

– Wear appropriate protective clothing, including gloves, boots, and a mask.
– Avoid contact with raw sewage, especially if you have any open wounds or skin irritation.
– Do not eat or drink while cleaning up sewage.
– Wash your hands thoroughly after handling sewage.
– If you experience any symptoms after exposure to sewage, seek medical attention promptly.