Latex allergy has become a major health concern as more individuals have been affected. Increased exposure to latex proteins increases the risk of developing allergic symptoms. Due to the use of latex gloves in the health care industry, health care workers are at high risk for developing a latex allergy. While less than one percent of the general population in the U.S. (about 3 million people) suffer from a latex allergy, 8 to 17 percent of health care workers are sensitized to natural rubber latex, according to the American Latex Allergy Association. Rubber industry workers are another high-risk group. Other at-risk groups include housekeepers, hairdressers, and workers in industries that manufacture latex products.
Allergic reactions range from skin redness, rash, hives or itching to respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, scratchy throat and difficulty breathing and, rarely, shock.