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What Diseases Can You Get From Sewage Backup at Home?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

Common Bacterial Infections from Sewage

Bacteria thrive in sewage, presenting a direct threat if you touch contaminated surfaces or water. E. Coli and salmonella are frequent culprits, causing severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. These illnesses can be dangerous for young children, older adults, or anyone with a weakened immune system. The bacteria can survive on surfaces long after visible water is gone, making proper sanitation essential.

Leptospirosis is another bacterial disease linked to sewage exposure, often through contact with contaminated soil or water. Symptoms can range from mild flu-like signs to severe liver and kidney damage. While less common, its potential severity underscores why you should treat all sewage backup as hazardous. Any open cuts or wounds provide an easy entry point for these harmful bacteria.

Viral and Parasitic Health Threats

Viruses in sewage are highly contagious and can cause significant illness. Norovirus leads to intense gastroenteritis, often called stomach flu, with symptoms of nausea and dehydration. Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects your liver, spread through the fecal-oral route, and can cause jaundice and fatigue. These viruses are resilient and require specific disinfectants for effective elimination.

Parasitic organisms, such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, are also found in sewage. Ingesting even a small amount of contaminated water can lead to prolonged digestive distress, including watery diarrhea and abdominal pain. These parasites have protective shells, making them resistant to some common cleaning agents. This resistance is why specialized cleaning protocols are necessary after a sewage event.

Inhaling airborne particles, or aerosols, from agitated sewage water can introduce pathogens directly into your lungs. This can trigger asthma attacks or lead to infections like bronchitis. Fungal spores, including those from mold that grows rapidly in damp conditions, become airborne and can cause allergic reactions and respiratory irritation. Protecting your airways with proper PPE is crucial during initial contact or cleanup.

Direct skin contact with sewage often causes infections. Bacteria can enter through small cuts or cause conditions like cellulitis, a painful skin infection. Rashes and dermatitis are also common reactions to the irritants and allergens in the wastewater. It is vital to wash any exposed skin thoroughly with soap and clean water as soon as possible after contact.

Immediate Actions to Protect Your Health

Your first step is to avoid all contact with the contaminated area. Keep children and pets far away. If you must enter, wear rubber boots, gloves, and an N95 respirator mask to prevent skin contact and inhalation. Do not attempt to clean significant sewage backup yourself, as improper methods can spread contaminants.

Ventilate the area by opening windows if it is safe to do so, but avoid using central HVAC systems that could circulate contaminants. Discard any porous materials, like cardboard or upholstery, that have been soaked, as they cannot be properly sanitized. All these actions are temporary measures until local water damage pros can perform the required specialized cleanup and disinfection.

  • Evacuate the affected area immediately.
  • Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) if entry is necessary.
  • Do not use household fans or the HVAC system.
  • Dispose of any food, medicine, or porous materials that came into contact with the sewage.
  • Wash any exposed skin with soap and clean water.
  • Contact a medical professional if you feel unwell.

Why Professional Cleanup Is Essential

Only trained professionals have the equipment and expertise to safely remediate sewage damage. They use industrial-grade antimicrobial agents and follow strict protocols to disinfect surfaces you cannot see. Their process includes controlled demolition, specialized drying, and air scrubbing to remove hazardous particles.

Attempting a DIY cleanup often leaves hidden moisture and pathogens behind, leading to mold growth and ongoing health risks. The pros also properly handle and dispose of contaminated materials according to local regulations. Investing in professional sewage backup cleanup is an investment in your family's long-term health and safety.

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Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I accidentally touched sewage water?

Wash the affected area immediately with plenty of soap and clean, running water. Pay close attention to any cuts or scrapes. Monitor yourself for symptoms like fever, stomach upset, or skin redness. If any symptoms develop, contact a doctor and inform them of the sewage exposure.

Can I stay in my home during sewage cleanup?

It is often safest to temporarily relocate, especially if you have young children, elderly family members, or individuals with respiratory conditions. The cleanup process involves strong chemicals and disturbs contaminants. The local water damage pros can advise on the specific safety timeline for re-entry based on the extent of contamination.

Does homeowner's insurance cover sewage backup cleanup?

Coverage depends entirely on your specific policy. Some policies include endorsements for sewer or drain backup, while others require a separate rider. You should review your policy documents and contact your insurance agent promptly to report the incident. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

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