Howard.
   On page 17 of July 2004 Bee Culture magazine is an interesting article by Mark Winston on allergies and beekeeping.  It contains the statement: " About 30% of commercial beekeepers surveyed reported chronic respiratory problems, including ear, eye, nose and throat irritation, allergic responses, and difficulty breathing." There is an allergen found in bee larvae and adults and in varroa mites as well. The study came out in a journal titled "Allergy."

Hope this helps.

Dick Marron

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