In order to protect yourself from COVID-19, it is important that you understand as much as possible about how it spreads. Can COVID-19 spread through sewage? Let’s take a look at the information.
Is it Possible for Sewage to Contain COVID-19?
Studies show that traces of the virus have appeared in the fecal matter of coronavirus patients. When viral infections overtake the body, your body’s various fluids (mucus, saliva, blood, etc.) test positive for it. The coronavirus is no exception.
Sewage is simply wastewater from various homes, individuals, and sources. Consequently, it is indeed possible for sewage to contain traces of COVID-19.
How Does This Information Help Public Health Officials?
You’re probably thinking, “Okay, so sewage can contain viral shedding, but what does that mean?” Actually, this information has the potential to help health professionals track the spread of the virus within cities. Typically, fecal matter tests positive for viral traces before an individual begins showing symptoms.
In the case of a public sewage system, public health officials cannot trace an infected feces sample back to its owner. However, based on the percentage of viral infection found within a city’s sewage, city authorities can better make decisions about how to handle their area’s coronavirus situation.
Can You Catch COVID-19 Through Septic System Contact?
As a general rule of thumb, you probably shouldn’t go out and frolic in public (or private!) sewage. Of course, to each their own, but that would be our advice even in the absence of a global pandemic.
That said, if you’re working on your septic system, and you happen to accidentally make contact with public or private sewage, don’t worry too much. Chances are very slim that you would catch COVID-19 from it.
First of all, there is nothing to prove that the virus is even in the sewage you make contact with. If the sewage you touch does contain traces of the virus, the treatments that have already occurred in the sewage will likely protect you from contamination.
Remember, the virus spreads through ingestion. It does not necessarily “spread through sewage.” Just make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching your face, and you don’t have to fear catching the virus from wastewater.
Tips for Staying Safe
Our desire is to help you and your family stay safe during this time by keeping you informed with accurate information. As a homeowner, the best thing you can do to prevent the spread of the virus is to keep your home clean and sanitized.
- Continue maintaining your septic system.
- Disinfect your bathroom regularly.
- Sanitize regularly-touched items such as light switches, doorknobs, etc.
- Eat healthy, immune system-strengthing foods.
- Stay clean and calm.
If you run into a problem with your septic system during this pandemic, call a professional. In the long run, it is much better to go ahead and deal with it.
Norway Septic Inc. is a service-oriented company dedicated to providing excellent septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services to homeowners and business owners in the Michiana area. We take pride in doing the job that others leave behind. If you need a new effluent filter or if you would like to schedule a septic tank cleaning by one of our professionals, call us today.