Sewage Cleanup Service Health Risks and How Long It Takes to Get Sick After Exposure

Health Risks of Sewage Exposure

Exposure to sewage poses significant health risks due to the presence of harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, and toxic chemicals. These microorganisms can cause a range of illnesses, including:

  • Gastrointestinal infections (e.g., E. coli, Salmonella)
  • Skin and ear infections (e.g., cellulitis, swimmer’s ear)
  • Respiratory infections (e.g., Legionnaire’s disease)
  • Eye infections (e.g., conjunctivitis)
  • Systemic infections (e.g., septicemia)

How Long Does It Take to Get Sick After Exposure to Sewage?

The incubation period for sewage-related illnesses varies depending on the specific pathogen encountered and the individual’s immune system. In general, symptoms may appear within several hours to a few days after exposure:

  • Gastrointestinal infections: 12-72 hours
  • Skin infections: 1-3 days
  • Ear infections: 2-7 days
  • Respiratory infections: 2-10 days
  • Eye infections: 1-3 days

Note that these are approximate timelines, and the actual incubation period may vary from case to case.

Professional Sewage Cleanup Services

If you have come into contact with sewage, it is crucial to seek immediate cleanup and disinfection services from qualified professionals. Prompt action can minimize the risk of infection and its associated health hazards.