Quick RI Question

[Sarin]

I am just curious. Of course everyone can agree that a RI is HIGHLY contagious. But in what form? Everyone states that if a snake has an RI, don't put it in/near another snake. Of course, common sense. But what about the same room? Is the bacteria air borne or only contagious through physical means? (ie Saliva).

We all know quarantine is the best, but what if it is not an option?

Would it be safe to house healthy snakes and snakes infected with RI in the same room as long as they are not put together, handled after another, while using different utensils, and sanitizing in between handling?

Just a thought. This could be useful information...

[PythonsbyParris]

The last one I took to the vet I asked the same thing. The vet said that RI is not airborne contagious. You can house them in the same room just not in the same container. They can not share water or other areas.

[mykee]

From the literature I've read, the bacterias in an RI's are contagious through contact with fluids, saliva, feces, etc.
However, these fluids can also become airborne through regular exhalations.
If I had an animal with an RI (and I have) they leave the snake room and are fed, cleaned, watered last and nothing else is touched afterwards.
Better safe than sorry.