I was a venom researcher in a former life (genetics and evolution of Mohave rattlesnake venoms). I always try to stay on top of some the current venom research all these years later because it still fascinates me and because I dedicated so much of my life to it. Gila monster venom is far from toxic or lethal to humans, and its a true venom secreted from venom glands. Years of research finally documented that for the Komodo dragons, too. The article made sense to me when they said suspected allergic reaction to the venom. There are so many different proteins in the various venoms that it doesn't take much to trigger that. Anaphylactic shock is not as uncommon as people thing from all of the various venoms (rattlesnakes, spiders, scorpions, and gila monsters). When I was younger, dumber, (supposedly invincible), and in the height of my research, I kept a sidewinder as a pet. That was probably one of the dumbest things I've done in my life and I can promise you there is some serious competition on that list.