How sewage makes people sick
Sewage carries whatever the people connected to the line were shedding, which can include gastrointestinal bacteria, viruses such as norovirus and hepatitis A, and parasites. Most illness from a household backup comes from ordinary routes: hands that touch contaminated surfaces and then touch the face or food, splashes into the eyes or mouth, and cuts or scrapes that come into contact with the water.
Breathing is a smaller but real concern. Agitating sewage, running a fan over it, or spraying it with a hose produces droplets and aerosols. As contaminated materials dry, dust from them can also carry residue. That is why professionals contain the space and wear respirators while tearing out drywall and carpet rather than just gloves.
Who is most at risk
| Person | Reason for extra caution |
|---|---|
| Infants and toddlers | Crawl, put hands in mouths, and have developing immune systems |
| Pregnant people | Some infections carry added risk during pregnancy |
| Older adults | Infections can be more severe and slower to clear |
| Anyone with a weakened immune system | Chemotherapy, transplant medicines and some chronic conditions increase infection risk |
| People with open wounds or skin conditions | Broken skin is a direct entry route |
| People with asthma or lung disease | Aerosols, dust and disinfectant fumes can trigger symptoms |
Hygiene while living around a backup
- Close the basement door and keep it closed; put a towel at the base if odor travels
- Wear waterproof gloves and eye protection for any contact, even brief
- Leave work shoes at the top of the stairs on a washable mat
- Wash hands with soap and water after any trip downstairs, before eating
- Wash clothing worn in the area separately in hot water
- Throw out food, drinks, medicines or toiletries that the water touched
- Do not let children play in the yard where sewage was pumped or tracked
When to call a doctor
- IfVomiting, diarrhea, fever or stomach cramps start in the days after exposureThenCall a doctor or nurse line and mention the sewage exposure so they can consider the right causes.
- IfA cut or scrape touched sewageThenWash it thoroughly, watch for redness, warmth or swelling, and ask a clinician whether a tetanus booster is due.
- IfSewage splashed into eyes or mouthThenRinse with clean water and call a doctor for advice, especially if irritation continues.
- IfCoughing, wheezing or headaches worsen near the basementThenStay out of the area and ask a doctor; the space may need more ventilation or professional containment.
Common questions
Is it safe to sleep in the house during cleanup?
Often yes, if the affected area is contained, the basement door is kept closed, and no one in the high-risk groups is in the home. If odor or fumes reach bedrooms, or the HVAC system shares air with the contaminated space, ask about relocating until the space is sanitized.
General information for Thornton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.