Historical QOD 4/16/09: Aside from being bitten and seriously envenomed what is another potentially fatal occupational risk for professional (or non-professional for that matter) snake handlers?
Specific IgE sensitization to snake venoms is a potentially significant and serious hazard for snake handlers who sustain repeated bites. Increasing sensitization may also take place via inhalation. This may lead to asthma symptoms and poses a potential risk for fatal anaphylaxis. Initial sensitization may occur from a bite from an unrelated species. Ongoing exposure to airborne snake venoms is a hazard for snake handlers and may be an even greater risk for known asthmatic patients who handle snakes as an avocation or vocation.
Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology,2005, 94: 600-603