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What Diseases Can You Get From Sewage Exposure?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Gastrointestinal Infections

Sewage contains human waste, which can carry bacteria and viruses that cause stomach and intestinal illness. Common examples include E. Coli, salmonella, and norovirus. Symptoms often include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. These can appear within hours or days after contact, depending on the pathogen and your exposure level.

Hepatitis A is another risk, a liver infection spread through sewage-contaminated food or water. It can cause fever, fatigue, and jaundice. If you have been in contact with raw sewage and feel unwell, see a doctor. Also, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water after any exposure, even if you wore gloves.

Skin and Wound Infections

Sewage water can contain bacteria that cause skin infections, especially if you have cuts, scrapes, or open sores. Contact may lead to rashes, itching, or more serious infections like cellulitis. Leptospirosis, a bacterial disease, can enter through broken skin and cause flu-like symptoms, and in severe cases, kidney or liver damage.

To reduce risk, wear waterproof boots and gloves when cleaning up sewage. Wash any exposed skin with soap and clean water as soon as possible. If a wound becomes red, swollen, or painful, seek medical attention. Do not ignore signs of infection, as early treatment helps prevent complications.

Respiratory and Eye Issues

Sewage can release airborne contaminants, especially when it is agitated or sprayed during cleanup. Inhaling these particles may irritate your lungs and cause coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. People with asthma or other lung conditions are more sensitive. Mold and fungi can also grow after sewage damage, adding to respiratory risks.

Eyes can also be affected if sewage splashes into them, leading to redness, irritation, or conjunctivitis. Always wear eye protection, such as goggles, when handling sewage-contaminated materials. If you experience persistent symptoms, see a doctor. Ventilate the area well by opening windows and using fans, but avoid spreading contaminated dust.

Parasitic Infections

Sewage may contain parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium, which cause intestinal illness. These microscopic organisms can survive in water and resist some disinfectants. Symptoms include diarrhea, stomach pain, and dehydration. They spread through contaminated water or food, and even a small amount of contaminated material can cause illness.

To protect yourself, do not eat or drink anything that may have touched sewage water. Boil water if you are unsure of its safety, or use bottled water. After cleanup, disinfect any surfaces that came into contact with sewage. If you develop diarrhea that lasts more than a day or two, contact a doctor.

Protecting Your Health

The sensible way to avoid sewage-related diseases is to limit your contact with contaminated material. Wear protective gear, including gloves, boots, and a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Keep children and pets away from affected areas until cleanup is complete. Wash your hands frequently with soap and clean water.

If sewage has backed up into your home, act quickly to clean and dry the area. The pros use specialized equipment and methods to remove sewage and disinfect surfaces. For help with cleanup, consider local water damage pros. Also, check your insurance policy to see if sewage backup is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

  • Wear rubber gloves and waterproof boots
  • Use a mask to avoid breathing in contaminants
  • Wash exposed skin with soap and clean water
  • Disinfect surfaces with a bleach solution
  • Keep children and pets away from affected areas
  • See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure

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Frequently asked questions

How soon after sewage exposure do symptoms appear?

Symptoms can appear within hours or take up to a few days, depending on the pathogen. For example, norovirus may cause symptoms in 12 to 48 hours, while hepatitis A can take 2 to 6 weeks. If you feel unwell, see a doctor and mention your exposure.

Can sewage exposure cause long-term health problems?

Some infections, like hepatitis A or leptospirosis, can have serious long-term effects if untreated. Parasitic infections may cause prolonged digestive issues. However, most healthy people recover fully with prompt medical care. Early treatment reduces the risk of complications.

Should I clean sewage myself or hire pros?

Small spills may be manageable with protective gear and thorough cleaning. Large backups or flooding pose greater health risks and require proper equipment. The pros have training and tools to safely remove sewage and disinfect your home. If you are unsure, consider contacting local water damage pros.

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