When faced with the aftermath of a sewage backup or spill, it’s crucial to prioritize both immediate cleanup and protecting your health. **Sewage Cleanup Service** is essential to mitigate the potential risks associated with raw sewage exposure, ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals, families, and communities.

### Health Risks and Symptoms

Exposure to raw sewage can lead to various health concerns, including:

– **Bacterial Infections:** Raw sewage contains harmful bacteria like E. coli, salmonella, and shigella, which can cause gastrointestinal infections, skin rashes, and respiratory illnesses.
– **Viral Infections:** Hepatitis A and norovirus are common viral pathogens present in sewage that can result in liver damage, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
– **Parasitic Infections:** Roundworms, hookworms, and other parasites can be transmitted through contact with raw sewage, causing abdominal pain, malnutrition, and other health issues.

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

Yes, it is possible to get sick from cleaning up raw sewage. Direct exposure to the contaminated material through skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion can lead to the aforementioned infections and symptoms.

## Protecting Your Health During Sewage Cleanup

To minimize the risk of illness, it’s essential to take the following precautions:

– **Use Protective Gear:** Wear gloves, goggles, a mask, and protective clothing to prevent contact with sewage and minimize inhalation of aerosols.
– **Ventilate the Area:** Keep windows and doors open to ensure proper ventilation and reduce the risk of inhaling harmful vapors.
– **Disinfect Surfaces:** Thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces that may have been exposed to sewage using an EPA-approved disinfectant.
– **Wash Hands Frequently:** Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after handling sewage or cleaning related materials.
– **Seek Medical Attention if Symptoms Appear:** If you experience any of the symptoms described above, seek medical attention promptly to prevent complications.

## Professional Sewage Cleanup Service

Hiring a professional **Sewage Cleanup Service** ensures thorough removal of contaminated materials, proper disinfection, and prevention of further contamination. These services typically include:

– **Emergency Response:** Rapid response to sewage emergencies to minimize damage and potential health risks.
– **Waste Removal:** Safe and efficient removal of raw sewage, contaminated water, and debris.
– **Decontamination:** Thorough cleaning and disinfection of affected areas to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
– **Odor Control:** Specialized techniques to neutralize unpleasant odors and prevent their spread.

## Conclusion

**Sewage Cleanup Service** is a critical component of protecting your health and property from the potentially harmful effects of raw sewage exposure. By taking necessary precautions and seeking professional assistance when necessary, you can effectively mitigate the risks and maintain a safe and healthy environment.