Patients can, however, still receive balloons made from mylar.
Latex balloons can cause serious complications to those who are sensitive or allergic to it. Symptoms of latex allergy can range from hives and itching to serious, although relatively rare, instances of anaphylactic shock - a potentially fatal reaction that affects many parts of the body at once. Simply being in the same room as a latex balloon can set off an allergic reaction. Omaha-area florists have been sent a letter notifying them that NHS will only accept mylar balloons on behalf of their patients. NHS is comprised of the former Clarkson Hospital, the first hospital in Nebraska, and the former University Hospital, the primary teaching facility for the University of Nebraska Medical Center.