**Sewage Cleanup Service** entails removing and disinfecting contaminated environments after sewage spills or backups. It's crucial to be aware of the potential health risks associated with raw sewage cleanup. ### Health Risks Raw sewage harbors various microorganisms, including: - **Bacteria:** Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella, Shigella - **Viruses:** Hepatitis A, Norovirus - **Parasites:** Giardia, Cryptosporidium Exposure to raw sewage can lead to: - **Skin infections:** Rashes, blisters, cellulitis - **Gastrointestinal illness:** Diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain - **Eye infections:** Conjunctivitis, blepharitis - **Respiratory infections:** Cough, shortness of breath, pneumonia ### Symptoms Symptoms of exposure to raw sewage can manifest within hours or days and may include: - **Gastrointestinal:** Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting - **Skin:** Rashes, blisters, itching - **Fever:** Chills, elevated body temperature - **Cough:** Dry cough, productive cough - **Eye irritation:** Redness, tearing, discharge ### Can you get sick from cleaning up raw sewage? Yes. Cleaning up raw sewage without proper protective gear and training poses a significant health risk. ### Mitigation To mitigate risks, use personal protective equipment (PPE): - Gloves - Mask - Apron - Goggles - Boots Additionally, individuals should: - Avoid skin contact with sewage. - Wash hands thoroughly after handling sewage. - Disinfect equipment and surfaces exposed to sewage. - Seek medical attention if symptoms develop.