 The snake mite, "Ophionyssus natricis", has been implicated as a possible vector for the virus, since mite infestations are commonly seen in epizootics of IBD and in captive specimens of these snakes.Mites are sometimes very difficult to eradicate due to their resistance to certain toxins used to eliminate them.Permethrin is effective against mite infestations, but must be used with great caution and only in small quantities due to its toxicity to snakes.