### Can You Get Sick from Cleaning Up Raw Sewage? Raw sewage harbors a multitude of harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, posing significant health risks to those involved in its cleanup. Exposure to sewage can cause a range of illnesses, including: * **Gastrointestinal Problems:** Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. * **Respiratory Issues:** Respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, caused by inhaling airborne contaminants. * **Skin Infections:** Rashes, blisters, and infections can result from direct contact with sewage. * **Eye Infections:** Redness, swelling, and pain in the eyes caused by contact with sewage. ### Prevention and Mitigation Measures To minimize the risks associated with sewage cleanup, certain precautions should be taken: * **Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):** Wear protective clothing, gloves, respirators, and goggles to prevent contact with harmful pathogens. * **Disinfection:** Use appropriate disinfectants to kill bacteria and viruses on tools, clothing, and work surfaces. * **Proper Waste Disposal:** Dispose of sewage waste in designated containers and follow proper waste management protocols. * **Thorough Hygiene:** Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling sewage, and avoid touching mouth, eyes, or open wounds. * **Medical Attention:** If symptoms develop after sewage exposure, seek medical attention promptly to assess and treat potential infections. ### Professional Sewage Cleanup Services Handling raw sewage should be entrusted to trained and experienced professionals equipped with specialized equipment and expertise. These services provide: * **Safe Removal:** Safely extract sewage from affected areas, minimizing the spread of contamination. * **Comprehensive Cleaning:** Thoroughly clean and disinfect affected areas to eliminate harmful pathogens. * **Waste Disposal:** Dispose of sewage waste in an environmentally responsible manner, ensuring compliance with regulations. * **Odor Control:** Address unpleasant odors associated with sewage by using professional-grade odor control techniques. * **Emergency Response:** Offer 24/7 emergency services to promptly mitigate sewage spills and minimize damage.