Severe anaphylactic reactions were reported, first in the healthcare setting, and later in dental offices and glove manufacturing facilities. Direct skin contact may give rise to localized or generalized urticaria so slight that it can be mistaken for dry, irritated skin, or even an insect bite. At this point, simply washing the hands could end the exposure. Unfortunately, people tend to rub their faces, noses, and eyes, spreading soluble latex proteins. Only 0.08 percent of the general population react to latex.
Several groups have a higher risk for reactions to latex.
Patients with spina bifida have an incidence of 18 to 40 percent. Any person with a congenital urologic abnormality is also at risk and generally has a history of allergic reactions to common latex products, such as toy balloons and rubber bands. People with allergic reactions to foods such as avocado, celery, kiwi, passion fruit, and bananas are also at risk for latex reactions. Most institutions now have formal protocols and are well equipped to handle latex sensitivity. Publications, community healthcare forums, and television programs are vital in educating the public about the dangers of latex sensitivity.