Sewage or wastewater poses a high risk to humans and animals and it can even be life-threatening if ingested or if one comes into contact with it.
Bacterial infections usually come from Blackwater or Greywater and include E. Coli, Dysentery, Leptospirosis, Salmonellosis, Cholera, intestinal infections and many others. Sewage makes for perfect bacteria growing conditions and the longer the sewage remains unremoved, the greater the risk of spread of bacteria. Symptoms may include, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, chills, blurry vision, fever and even respiratory failure.
Viral infections include Hepatitis A, Polyomavirus Infection and SARS. Viruses can enter the body via ingestion or through a cut in the skin. Viruses are not cured by antibiotics which is why it is extremely important to remove sewage or wastewater immediately and to not attempt to remove it yourself. Symptoms may include fatigue, fever, myalgia and headaches or respiratory failure.
Protozoan Infections are caused by the protozoa Amoebiasis, Cryptosporidiosis, Giardiasis and Microsporidiosis. Protozoa are actually single celled organisms which are part of the animal kingdom. Symptoms of infection range from fatigue, cramps, diarrhoea and bloating.
There are other fungal and parasitic infections that are transmissible by contaminated water but these are largely rare in the UK. In any case it is extremely important to hire a professional cleaning company to remove sewage spillage as soon as possible.
If you suffer from any of the above symptoms after coming in contact with contaminated water you should contact you doctor immediately.
