Thousands of unknown disease-causing germs live in sewage lines, pipes, and manholes. If not cleaned on time or taken precautionary steps, they could pose a serious health risk.
For proper maintenance of the sewage system, you must repair all blocked, broken, damaged, or worn-out parts as soon as possible after they stop working properly.
Let’s have a look at the history and health issues associated with sewage exposure.
Health and Sewer Problems in History
Around the 16th century in Europe, there were outdoor market places permeated with the aroma of confectionery items and fresh vegetables. Across those markets, however, people also witnessed human waste coming from nearby houses, indicating poor sewage and sanitation systems.
A large number of people lost their lives to typhoid, cholera, and dysentery that spread from consuming infected water as a result of poor sanitation. Eventually, poor sanitation led to the plague, which flies disseminated and killed thousands of people in Europe.
Health Problems of Sewage Exposure
Three critical health issues are present in the sewage because of the following:
Viruses
Viruses in sewage cause gastroenteritis and Hepatitis A. People suffer from diarrhea, stomach pain and cramps, and excessive vomiting after consuming sewage-contaminated eatables. Temporary or permanent paralysis could occur in severe cases.
Bacteria
Bacterial infections occur when people come in contact with sewage directly or indirectly. A common bacterium, campylobacteriosis ingestion, leads to bloody stool, high temperature, and vomiting. Contaminated food or water consumption could spread it as well.
Parasites
Common water-borne parasites include Cryptosporidium and Giardia lamblia. They also cause diarrhea and stomach cramps. Most people develop roundworms in their stomach, which leads to cough and blocked intestines.
Sources of Sewage Exposure
Broken Sewage Pipes
Infected water spills on the ground when sewage pipes break or leak. People coming in contact with the water get exposed to the health risks mentioned above.
Non Functional Toilets
A blocked toilet overflows easily. The flooded water carries thousands of invisible germs that are released into the air instantly. It’s advisable to call professional plumbers to fix clogged toilets because they have special PPE for getting exposed to dirty water.
Septic Tanks
A septic tank is a chamber containing a mixture of local waste, sludge, and manure. They are also unhealthy and hazardous. If the septic tank’s lid breaks, get it fixed or it will spread germs in the air.
Inundated Floor Drains
Heavy rain causes the sewer and drainage system to swell, which results in contaminated water entering people’s homes especially the people living in the basements of their homes.
PRO SERVE Plumbing and your sewage problems
Did you see an open manhole? Pro Serve Plumbing is an established emergency residential plumbing service provider in Fort Worth. Our quality and affordable local plumbing services ensure clean homes with minimal sewage-related health threats.
Get in touch now at 817-244-0614 or info@proserveplumbers.com to book an appointment.
