Parasite Infection Caused by Sewage Spills

Raw sewage contains excrement which harbors parasites and bacteria. When there is a sewage spill, the waste flows out through broken pipes or manhole covers, threatening beaches and waterways, and posing a health hazard.

Exposure

• The bacteria and parasites that people may be exposed to in a sewage spill can cause infections as well as diarrhea, vomiting, headaches and fever. If you've been exposed to raw sewage, it's advisable to wash well with warm water and soap, clean under your nails, and clean any clothes that may have been contaminated.

Cryptosporidiosis

• Cryptosporidiosis is a disease caused by the parasite Cryptosporidium. These parasites cannot be seen with the naked eye. They have an outer shell that makes survival outside the body possible for an extended amount of time. One of the means of contracting the disease is by swallowing recreational water that has been contaminated with sewage that contains the parasite. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever and stomach pains.

Roundworm

• Roundworm or Ascariasis is a parasite that can be found in sewage spills. Some people who are infected with this parasite may be asymptomatic, while others might have stomach pain, a cough or trouble breathing. If left untreated, roundworm can lead to blockages in the intestine.