Phone answered 24/7 · Baltimore, MD and nearby communities

Call 24/7: (410) 237-0394
Patapsco River Water Damage HelpBaltimore, MD · Answered 24/7

Can Floodwater Cause Skin Infections or Illness?

Last updated October 31, 2026

Call Now (410) 237-0394

The short answer

Common Contaminants in Floodwater

Floodwater is rarely clean. It often contains bacteria from sewage overflow, agricultural runoff, or industrial waste. Chemicals from flooded areas, including pesticides, cleaning agents, and gasoline, can also dissolve into the water. This mix of contaminants makes any contact with floodwater a potential health hazard.

The specific risks depend on the flood's source and what it passes over. In a city, water may carry heavy metals or industrial solvents. In rural areas, animal waste and fertilizers are common. This contaminated water can cause harm through direct skin contact or if accidentally swallowed.

How Floodwater Affects Your Skin

Your skin acts as a protective barrier, but floodwater can break it down. Prolonged exposure to dirty water softens the skin, making it easier for bacteria to enter through small cuts or abrasions. This can lead to painful infections like cellulitis or staph infections.

Chemical irritants in the water can also cause contact dermatitis, resulting in rashes, itching, and blisters. Open wounds exposed to floodwater are at especially high risk. If you have any cuts, it is vital to keep them clean, dry, and covered if you must be in a flooded area.

Other Health Risks from Floodwater

Beyond skin issues, floodwater poses other illness risks. Ingesting even a small amount of contaminated water can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses like norovirus or E. Coli infection. Symptoms often include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration.

In rare cases, floodwater can harbor pathogens that cause more serious systemic infections, such as leptospirosis. This is why avoiding all contact with standing floodwater is the safest approach. If you must wade through it, wearing waterproof boots and gloves is a minimum precaution.

  • Bacterial infections from sewage (E. Coli, Salmonella)
  • Viral infections like norovirus and hepatitis A
  • Parasitic infections from animal waste
  • Chemical burns or irritation from industrial solvents
  • Fungal infections from prolonged wet skin
  • Secondary infections from existing cuts or scratches

Immediate Safety Steps After Exposure

If your skin contacts floodwater, wash the area immediately with clean, running water and soap. Scrub gently to remove contaminants. Pay special attention to any cuts, scrapes, or existing rashes. After washing, dry the skin thoroughly and apply a clean, dry bandage to any open wounds.

Dispose of any clothing that was soaked in floodwater, as washing may not remove all contaminants. Monitor the exposed skin for several days. Watch for signs of infection like increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or red streaks. If any of these signs appear, see a doctor promptly.

When to Contact a Professional

After a flood, your home needs proper cleaning to be safe. Contaminated water has likely soaked into porous materials like drywall, carpets, and insulation. These materials can harbor mold and bacteria long after the water recedes, creating an ongoing health risk.

Local water damage pros have the equipment and training to safely remove contaminated materials and thoroughly dry the structure. They follow industry standards to clean and disinfect affected areas. This process helps eliminate the sources of contamination that could cause future illness.

  • Persistent skin rash or infection after cleaning
  • Signs of mold growth (musty smell, visible spots) in the home
  • Floodwater that sat for over 24 hours
  • Water that came from a sewage backup or outside ground
  • Porous materials like drywall or carpet that got wet
  • A lingering damp feeling or humidity in the home

Talk to someone now

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

Call Now (410) 237-0394

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I accidentally swallow floodwater?

If you swallow floodwater, monitor yourself for symptoms like stomach cramps, diarrhea, or fever. Drink plenty of clean fluids to stay hydrated. Contact a doctor if you develop any of these symptoms, as they can indicate a bacterial or viral infection that may need treatment.

Can I get sick from floodwater if I have no open cuts?

Yes, you can still get sick. Chemicals in the water can irritate intact skin, causing rashes. Bacteria can also enter through your eyes, nose, or mouth if you touch your face with contaminated hands. Always wash thoroughly after any potential contact with floodwater.

How long after a flood can mold cause health problems?

Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours in wet conditions. Its spores can cause allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and respiratory irritation. If you see or smell mold after a flood, it's important to have the area assessed and remediated properly.

Call Now (410) 237-0394