A properly working septic system is rarely thought about, but if you forgo regular maintenance, you may soon discover sewage in your home and yard. This can pose a significant health hazard, because contact with raw sewage leads to a plethora of illnesses—and, in some instances, even death. Following a strict septic tank cleaning schedule will prevent this problem from occurring at your residence.

What Are the Dangers of Skipping Septic Tank Cleanings?

Viruses

Raw sewage tends to contain many viruses, including the rotavirus, adenovirus, and Norwalk virus. Any of these can cause you to develop gastroenteritis, which will produce symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramping, and abdominal pain. Other viruses found in sewage include Hepatitis A and the Poliomyelitis virus. Children are more likely to be affected by Hepatitis A, which can cause fever, jaundice, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. The Poliomyelitis virus causes polio and can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis.

Bacteria

Numerous forms of bacteria lurk in raw sewage, and many of them, if not treated quickly, can lead to life-threatening illnesses. For instance, Campylobacter causes Campylobacteriosis, which can become a blood-borne infection. The more common E. coli bacteria is known to cause hemolytic uremic syndrome—a condition that affects the blood and blood vessels and can lead to kidney failure. Other harmful types of bacteria that thrive in sewage include salmonella, Leptospira, and Shigella.

Parasites

It shouldn’t surprise you that the worst parasites like to linger in raw sewage. Cryptosporidium parvum is just one example, and it can cause cryptosporidiosis—one of the most common waterborne illnesses in the world. If you contract this disease, you can expect nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and abdominal pain. It has also been known to be fatal in immunocompromised individuals.

As scary as these illnesses might be, it’s easy to avoid coming into contact with them at home. Regular septic tank cleaning and maintenance will ensure you and your family remain safe. At American Rooter in Watertown, CT, they provide everything from septic pumping to leach field cleaning. To schedule their assistance today, call (888) 863-4638. To learn more about these and other services, including sewer and drain cleaning, visit their website.