The consequences are severe. There is at least one reported case of anaphylactic death after rectal examination with a latex finger stool and FDA reporting has indicated 15 deaths and 400 injuries from latex barium enema tips. There is one documented case of repeated graft rejections caused by latex allergy. One third of atopic subjects exposed to latex will have latex sensitivity. Latex allergy isn't going to go away.
Many people have allergies and the number is growing.
They are an at-risk group. Patients are increasingly exposed as all healthcare workers now use gloves. Latex allergy will become important for health authorities and providers, both for their patients and their employees. There are enormous potential employment and public liability issues. Latex reactions are now notifiable to the FDA, and in the US professional groups and hospitals have developed protocols for dealing with latex issues.