I have 2 children , 8 and 4, that love handling and touching my snakes, ( under careful supervision) especially the 8 year old. While I consider myself a cautious parent, I am sure there have been a few times when hands were forgotten to be washed after handling the snakes. My children have never gotten sick after handling my snakes. and I am sure my 4 year old, has put his hands in his mouth after touching or holding one.