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Exposure to Sewage Can Make You Sick: Learn How to Protect Yourself.

Exposure to Sewage Can Make You Sick: Learn How to Protect Yourself


Sewage contamination is a growing environmental and public health issue, especially in coastal and low-lying areas like Florida. When raw sewage leaks into surface waters such as lakes, rivers, and lagoons, it can carry harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that make both people and animals sick. Understanding how sewage exposure happens and the types of illnesses it can cause is essential for protecting your health and the well-being of your community.


How Does Sewage Enter Surface Waters?

Sewage—wastewater from toilets, showers, sinks, and industrial processes—can infiltrate water bodies through various pathways:


  • Sewage spills or overflows

  • Broken or aging sewer pipes

  • Leaking septic systems

  • Stormwater runoff during heavy rain events


The rainy season often brings increased pressure on sewer infrastructure, leading to more frequent pollution notices. According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida experiences thousands of sewage spills annually, many of which affect local water bodies like the Indian River Lagoon.


How Can You Be Exposed to Sewage?

Exposure to sewage doesn’t always require direct contact. It can occur through:


  • Swimming in or boating on contaminated water

  • Inhaling water vapors or aerosolized droplets

  • Getting sewage-contaminated water into cuts or abrasions

  • Ingesting even small amounts of contaminated water


A 2020 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that exposure to untreated sewage increases the risk of gastrointestinal, dermatological, and respiratory illnesses, especially for children and those with weakened immune systems.


What Illnesses Are Linked to Sewage Exposure?


Sewage contains pathogens such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), norovirus, rotavirus, and Hepatitis A, as well as various parasites and worms. These can lead to a variety of health issues:


Common Illnesses:

  • Gastroenteritis – Diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting

  • Respiratory Infections – Bronchitis, pneumonia, and croup

  • Skin Infections – Rash, redness, or pus-filled sores after contact with water

  • Eye Infections – Conjunctivitis (pink eye) from splashed water

  • Ear Infections – Often from swimming in contaminated water

  • Sore Throat, Sinus Infections, and Headaches – Inhalation of vapors or contaminated droplets


More Serious Conditions:

  • Hepatitis A – A viral liver infection causing fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, and pale stools

  • Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – Caused by bacterial contamination

  • Parasitic Infections – Such as giardia or hookworms, which can lead to diarrhea, anemia, and chronic fatigue


According to the CDC, symptoms from sewage exposure can appear within 24 to 72 hours, depending on the type and amount of exposure.


If You’ve Been Exposed

If you or a family member feels sick after swimming or recreating in the Indian River Lagoon, especially the northern section, seek medical attention and tell your doctor you may have been exposed to sewage. This is critical for proper diagnosis and treatment.


  • Have any symptoms documented by a physician

  • Do not wait if you notice infection in a cut or wound

  • Watch for escalating symptoms like fever, fatigue, or digestive issues


Pet Safety Warning


Keep pets away from contaminated water. Dogs are particularly susceptible to waterborne illnesses. If your pet exhibits symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy after exposure, take them to a veterinarian immediately.


Sources and Further Reading:


Sewage exposure is preventable, but awareness is key. Stay informed, follow health advisories, and advocate for better wastewater infrastructure in your community to help reduce the risk.


Protect yourself. Protect your family. Protect our waterways.


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