The Real Health Risks of a Sewage Backup

A sewage backup introduces Category 3 "black water" into your home — the most contaminated classification there is. It carries a range of pathogens that can cause serious illness, which is why we treat it as a biohazard from the moment we arrive.

What is in raw sewage

Sewage can contain E. coli, salmonella, hepatitis A, rotavirus, and parasites, along with hydrogen sulfide gas. Exposure can happen through skin contact, ingestion, or simply breathing contaminated air in an enclosed space.

Who is most at risk

Infants, elderly residents, pregnant women, and anyone with a weakened immune system are especially vulnerable. Keep these family members and pets far away from the affected area until it is fully decontaminated.