| Latex Allergy |
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Latex gloves have proved effective 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- especially among health care workers.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health estimates that approximately 1-6% of the general population, and 8-12% of health care workers regularly exposed to latex are sensitized. In Oregon alone, 1-6 % of the general population adds up to 34,000-200,000 people. Latex Allergy remains a highly unrecognized and undiagnosed condition that can have serious health effects. Latex Allergy can affect anyone - adults, children and infants, it's not just a problem for health care workers. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI), parents may not know their child is latex allergic until they have a reaction.
Many people are being unknowingly and unnecessarily exposed to the hazards of latex. The problem of latex allergy has been identified by the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology as an occupational health problem. Many employers encourage or require that employees wear gloves for work-related tasks. Latex gloves can be found in many settings including: health care, dental care, child care, food service, hair and nail salons, housekeeping & janitorial services, agriculture, automotive repair, and manufacturing.
Read more about latex allergy...
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| Publications |
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CD Summary
The CD Summary is a publication from Office of Disease Prevention and Epidemiology in the Oregon Public Health Division, Department of Human Services. The CD Summary is distributed every two weeks to MDs, DOs, NPs, PAs, various public health agencies, media representatives, medical laboratories, hospitals in the State of Oregon. To learn more about the CD Summary or to subscribe, visit the CD Summary homeage.
Past issues related to latex allergy are listed below:
To view current or other past issues visit the CD Summary homepage.
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| Resources |
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Latex-Free Dentistry Guide
A 60 page booklet describing some of the considerations to take into account when creating a Latex-Free Dental office. The Latex-Free Dentistry Guide is available through the Pacific Northwest Foundation.
The book contains information about:
- Understanding Latex Allergy & Contact Dermatitis
- Development, Symptoms & Testing of Latex Allergy
- How to Prevent Latex Allergy at your Dental office
- Treatment of the Latex Allergic Patient
- Latex-Free Dental Materials
- Appendices
- Alternative Materials List
- Dental Supply Links (Manufacturers & Suppliers)
- Glove Types & Indications
- Patient Screening Questionnaire (Short Form)
- Patient Screening Questionnaire (Long Form)
- Useful Web Links
Visit the Pacific Northwest Foundation to order a copy of the Latex-Free Dentistry Guide.
Latex Allergy Alerts
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| Websites |
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To learn more about latex allergy, visit the following websites:
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