Latex Allergy Course Overview
Latex allergy has become a major health concern since it was first recognized in the late 1970s, with an estimated 8-12 percent of healthcare workers affected by latex sensitivity. Healthcare workers face repeated exposure to latex gloves and medical products containing natural rubber latex, putting them at risk for reactions ranging from irritant contact dermatitis to immediate, potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis. Many workers don’t realize that repeated exposure can lead to sensitization, turning harmless gloves into a serious occupational hazard that can end careers and cause permanent health effects.
This course informs healthcare workers about products and practices that can trigger latex allergies and how to reduce exposure risk. Employees learn what latex is and the distinction between natural and synthetic rubber, which occupations and populations are at highest risk, the three types of latex reactions (irritant dermatitis, Type IV delayed hypersensitivity, Type I immediate hypersensitivity) and their symptoms, diagnostic methods for latex allergy, and prevention strategies including non-latex alternatives and proper glove selection.


