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What Diseases Can You Get From Sewage Exposure?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

Common Illnesses from Sewage

Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can make you sick. Gastrointestinal problems are the most frequent, with symptoms like diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting. E. Coli, salmonella, and shigella are common bacterial culprits. Hepatitis A, a viral liver infection, can also spread through sewage contact.

Parasites such as giardia and cryptosporidium live in contaminated water and cause severe diarrhea. Skin infections, including rashes and fungal issues, can develop if sewage touches broken skin. Respiratory irritation may occur from inhaling airborne particles, especially during cleanup. Eye infections are possible if contaminated water splashes into your eyes.

  • Wash hands with soap and clean water after any contact
  • Wear waterproof gloves and boots during cleanup
  • Use a mask to avoid inhaling dust or droplets
  • Keep children and pets away from affected areas
  • Do not eat or drink near the contaminated zone
  • Cover open cuts with waterproof bandages

How to Reduce Your Risk

Limit direct contact with sewage as much as you can. If you must enter a flooded area, wear protective clothing including long sleeves, rubber boots, and heavy gloves. Avoid touching your face, and keep food and drinks far from the work zone. After any exposure, remove contaminated clothing and shower with soap and clean water.

Clean surfaces with a bleach solution or a disinfectant labeled for sewage. Dispose of porous materials like carpet and drywall that cannot be fully cleaned. Do not use fans that spread contaminated air into clean rooms. Open windows to ventilate the space while you work, but keep children and pets out until the area is dry.

When to See a Doctor

Some symptoms appear within hours, others take days. If you develop diarrhea, vomiting, fever, or skin sores after sewage contact, seek medical attention. Tell the doctor about the exposure so they can test for specific infections. Early treatment helps prevent complications, especially for vulnerable people like children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.

Hepatitis A symptoms may not show for two to six weeks. If you suspect exposure and feel unwell, do not wait. A doctor can advise on testing and whether you need treatment. For any respiratory distress or eye pain, get care right away. Do not self-medicate; let a professional guide you.

Cleaning Up After Sewage

Sewage cleanup requires careful handling to avoid spreading contamination. Remove standing water and affected materials, then clean hard surfaces with a disinfectant. Wear the same protective gear you used during initial contact, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Do not mix cleaners, as chemical reactions can create toxic fumes.

After cleaning, dry the area completely to prevent mold growth. Use dehumidifiers and fans to speed up drying, but only after the space is clear of sewage. If the job is large or you feel unsafe, consider contacting local water damage pros for sewage backup cleanup and sanitation. They have the equipment and experience to handle hazardous messes.

Long-Term Health Considerations

Most sewage-related infections resolve with treatment, but some can have lasting effects. Hepatitis A can cause liver inflammation that takes months to heal. Parasitic infections may lead to chronic digestive issues if not treated. Repeated exposure increases your risk, so take precautions seriously, especially in flood-prone areas.

If you live in Columbus, keep your shutoff valve location written down to reduce sewage backup risk. The local climate, with cold winters and warm humid summers, can affect drying times after floods. If you suspect sewage contamination, act quickly and consider professional help. Your health depends on thorough cleanup and prompt medical care when needed.

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Frequently asked questions

How long after sewage exposure do symptoms appear?

Symptoms can start within hours for bacterial infections like E. Coli, while viral infections such as hepatitis A may take two to six weeks. Parasites like giardia often cause symptoms within one to two weeks. If you feel unwell after exposure, see a doctor promptly.

Can sewage exposure cause long-term health problems?

Yes, some infections can lead to chronic issues. Hepatitis A may cause prolonged liver inflammation, and certain parasites can result in long-lasting digestive problems. Repeated exposure increases risk. Seeking medical care early reduces the chance of severe or lasting effects.

What should I do if I touched sewage without gloves?

Wash the area with soap and clean water immediately. Do not scrub hard, as that can irritate skin. Check for any cuts or open wounds and clean them thoroughly. If you notice redness, swelling, or pain, see a doctor. Also, wash your hands before eating or touching your face.

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