Health Risks and Symptoms of Sewage Backup Is It Safe to Stay

**Sewage Cleanup Service** is essential when facing a sewage backup. Raw sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that pose significant health risks. ### Health Risks of Sewage Backup Exposure to sewage can lead to various health issues, including: - **Gastrointestinal Illnesses:** Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain - **Skin Infections:** Rashes, boils, cellulitis - **Respiratory Infections:** Cough, shortness of breath, pneumonia - **Eye Infections:** Conjunctivitis (pink eye), corneal ulcers - **Other Infections:** Hepatitis A, typhoid fever ### Symptoms of Sewage Exposure Symptoms of sewage exposure may vary depending on the individual and the level of exposure. Common symptoms include: - Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea - Abdominal pain or cramps - Fever - Chills - Weakness - Skin rashes or irritation - Eye pain or redness ### Is It Safe to Stay in a House with Sewage Backup? **No, it is not safe to stay in a house with sewage backup.** The presence of raw sewage indicates a potential health hazard. Immediate action is required to clean up the sewage, disinfect the area, and prevent further contamination. **Steps to Take:** 1. **Evacuate the Property:** Immediately leave the affected house and seek temporary shelter. 2. **Contact a Sewage Cleanup Service:** Call a professional cleanup company to assess the situation and safely remove the sewage. 3. **Disconnect Utilities:** Turn off water and electricity to prevent further damage. 4. **Ventilate the Area:** Open windows and doors to ventilate the house and remove foul odors. **Prevention:** To minimize the risk of sewage backup, homeowners can take the following steps: - Regularly clean and maintain sewer lines - Check for and repair any leaks or cracks - Install a backflow preventer - Elevate essential items above floor level - Have a plan in place for sewage emergencies