Gloves are essential in preventing transmission of many infectious diseases to health care workers. But for some workers, exposures to latex may result in allergic reactions. Reports of such reactions have increased in recent years, especially among health care workers.

What is latex?
Latex refers to natural rubber latex, which is manufactured from a milky fluid derived from the rubber tree. Several types of synthetic rubber are also referred to as “latex,” but these do not release the proteins that cause allergic reactions.

What is a latex allergy?
Latex allergy is a reaction to certain proteins in latex rubber. The amount of latex exposure needed to produce sensitization or an allergic reaction is unknown and varies from person to person. Symptoms usually begin within minutes of exposure, but they can occur hours later and severity varies. Mild reactions to latex involve skin redness, rash, hives, or itching. More severe reactions may involve respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, asthma, difficult breathing, coughing spells, and wheezing. A life-threatening reaction is rarely the first sign of latex allergy.

Who is at risk of developing latex allergy?
Health care workers are at risk of developing latex allergy because they use latex gloves frequently. Other workers with glove use, such as janitorial services are also at risk.

Is skin contact the only type of latex exposure?
No. Latex proteins bond to the lubricant powder used in some gloves. When workers remove gloves, the protein particles become airborne and can be inhaled. Causing respiratory issues.

How is latex allergy treated?
Detecting symptoms early, reducing exposure to latex, and seeking medical advice are important to prevent series health effects. Once a worker becomes allergic to latex, special precautions are needed to prevent exposures. Certain medications may reduce the allergy symptoms, but complete latex avoidance, is the most effective approach.

What if I think I have latex allergy?
If you have latex allergy, contact your physician and follow the following precautions:
• Avoid contact with latex gloves and products
• Avoid areas where you might inhale the powder from latex gloves worn by other workers
• Tell your employer, and fellow coworkers that you have latex allergy
• Wear a medical alert bracelet

Are there other types of reactions to latex besides latex allergy?
Yes. The most common reaction to latex products is irritant contact dermatitis which leads to the development of dry, itchy, irritated areas on the skin, usually the hands. This reaction is caused by irritation from wearing gloves and by exposure to the powders added to them. Allergic contact dermatitis results from the chemicals added to latex during manufacturing. These chemicals can cause a skin rash similar to poison ivy.

How can I protect myself from latex allergy?
Take the following steps to protect yourself from latex exposure and allergy in the workplace:

Be sure to only use powder-free latex gloves, as powdered gloves have been banned since 2017.
• Powder-free gloves reduce exposures to latex protein and thus reduce the risk of latex allergy
• So-called hypoallergenic latex gloves do not reduce the risk of latex allergy. But, they may reduce reactions.
Use appropriate work practices to reduce the chance of reactions to latex:
• When wearing latex gloves, do not use oil-based hand creams or lotions which can deteriorate the proteins in the glove
• After removing latex gloves, wash hands with a mild soap and dry thoroughly
• Frequently clean areas and equipment contaminated with latex-containing dust
Learn to recognize the symptoms of latex allergy:
• Skin rash
• Hives
• Skin flushing
• Itching
• Eye irritation
• Difficulty breathing

Are there alternatives to latex gloves?
There are multiple alternatives to latex gloves. Some options are nitrile gloves, polyethylene gloves, and vinyl gloves. Nitrile is the best alternative to latex gloves because it is just as durable, comfortable, and functional as latex but without the risk of allergies.

Nitrile glove features:
• Highly resistant to punctures
• High level of sensitivity
• Molds to the hand for a good fit
• Resistant to many chemicals
• Good durability and long shelf life