The Health Risks Associated With Sewage Backup

 

Bacteria That Can Be Brought Into Your House Through A Sewage Backup

E Coli
Sewage water can contain a variety of bacteria, but one of the most common forms of bacteria found in sewage is Escherichia coli, commonly known as E. coli. While this form of bacteria is naturally present in the intestines, when it is outside of the intestines it can be incredibly harmful. Some types of E. coli are not too dangerous and only cause mild diarrhea, while other types of E. coli can lead to severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. As a result of the symptoms of E. coli, a person may also suffer from dehydration. While most healthy adults can recover from several types of E. coli within a week or two, children, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems may develop kidney failure, which can be life-threatening.

Hepatitis A
Hepatitis is the general term used for liver inflammation and hepatitis A can cause nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal discomfort, loss of appetite, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin). Hepatitis A often affects people more severely if they are older and sometimes children will show no symptoms at all.

Salmonella
This infection impacts the digestive tract. Most people who contract salmonella will experience diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever within 8 to 72 hours after exposure. Most people will recover from salmonella within a week, but it is possible for the infection to spread beyond the intestines and lead to other, longer-lasting, health complications.

Encephalitis
This infection can cause inflammation of the brain that drastically varies in its symptom severity. Some people may feel as though they have a bad cold and will have fever, aches, and fatigue. Others can have far more severe reactions, including muscle weakness, immobility, seizures, speech difficulties, loss of consciousness, mental confusion, and more.

Carbon Monoxide
Sewage creates and gives off a variety of toxic gasses, including carbon monoxide. If a person inhales too much carbon monoxide, the body will use this gas in red blood cells instead of oxygen, which can lead to tissue damage (such as brain damage) or death. This gas is colourless, odourless, and tasteless. Some symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include dizziness, shortness of breath, headaches, weakness, vomiting, blurred vision, loss of consciousness, and mental confusion.

Learn more about sewage backups, including causes and what to do, by reading Sewage Backup 101: What You Should Know.

 

Sewage Backup Cleanup In Calgary

If your home or business has a sewage backup, do not try to clean it yourself. Instead, call the sewage backup cleanup experts at 24/7 Restoration. Our cleanup team has the training and equipment for a safe cleanup that removes all sewage and completely clears any dangerous viruses and bacteria from the building. At 24/7 Restoration in Calgary, our skilled team of plumbers, technicians, and health and safety experts are renowned for providing exceptional customer service and can get your home or business back to pre-sewage backup condition. For professional sewage backup cleanup and bacteria remediation, contact 24/7 Restoration at any time, day or night, by calling 1-403-247-4365 or filling out the online contact form.

 

FAQ

Q: Is all wastewater equally dangerous?
A: There are two types of wastewater: greywater and blackwater. Greywater is the waste from sinks, showers, and washing machines and although it may have food particles and minor waste, it is not considered highly dangerous. Blackwater is sewage water that contains human fecal matter and it is considered dangerous. To learn more about the differences between blackwater and greywater and what to do if either backup, read Greywater Versus Blackwater: What Is The Difference?

Q: Can I use bleach to clean up my sewage backup?
A: No. While bleach kills 99% of common household germs it DOES NOT remove or kill the contamination caused by blackwater. While bleach may clean the stains associated with a sewer backup the contamination left behind still poses significant health risks.

Q: What happens when I call 24/7 Restoration for sewage backup service?
A: We offer a 24-hour emergency line that will immediately connect you with one of our skilled and professional project managers. We will promptly inspect the damage while providing the education and clarity needed to help you now and in the future. Once we have made a plan together, our team of expert technicians and plumbers will get to work with care and diligence, repairing your current needs and safeguarding you from any potential future issues. When you choose to work with 24/7 Restoration for your Sewage Backup needs, you can expect:

• A skilled, experienced, and IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified team
• State-of-the-art equipment
• Daily monitoring for secondary issues such as mold buildup
• A dedicated person on-call to answer any and all of your questions