How Long Do Bacteria Survive in Sewage Spills

Cleanup and Disinfection for Sewage Cleanup Services

Sewage spills pose significant health risks due to the presence of harmful bacteria. Understanding their survival rates is crucial for effective cleanup and disinfection.

What Bacteria Are Found in Sewage?

Sewage contains a wide variety of bacteria, including:

  • E. coli
  • Salmonella
  • Shigella
  • Hepatitis A
  • Norovirus

Survival of Bacteria in Indoor Spills

The survival time of bacteria in indoor sewage spills depends on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of organic matter. Generally, bacteria can survive for:

  • E. coli: 2-3 days
  • Salmonella: 1-2 days
  • Shigella: 2-4 days
  • Hepatitis A: Up to 1 month
  • Norovirus: Up to 1 week

Importance of Prompt Cleanup and Disinfection

Due to the relatively short survival times of bacteria in indoor sewage spills, prompt cleanup and disinfection are essential to prevent the spread of disease. Proper cleanup involves removing contaminated materials, such as carpets and upholstery, and disinfecting all affected surfaces with an EPA-registered disinfectant.

Professional Sewage Cleanup Services

For safe and effective cleanup and disinfection of sewage spills, it is recommended to hire professional Sewage Cleanup Services. These services provide:

  • Skilled technicians with specialized equipment
  • Proper removal and disposal of contaminated materials
  • Thorough disinfection and sanitization
  • Post-cleanup inspection and testing to ensure safety