These floodwaters aren’t just hazardous because of their depth and but also because of what they could contain — including raw sewage and industrial or agricultural waste.
Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Jennifer Russell says water contaminated with sewage could carry bacteria that can make you sick.
Dr. Russell says you should seek medical attention if you’re exposed to sewage water and you develop diarrhea, vomiting or fever.
“These bacteria such a salmonella and E.coli are typically spread through fecal-oral route meaning that the greatest risk of infection comes from eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water,” says Dr. Russell.
Dr. Russell also says to never touch raw sewage with your bare hands and you should wear gloves, rubber boots, eye protection and a face mask when cleaning and disinfecting.
