An estimated 5% to 10% of health care workers have a latex allergy. Symptoms can range anywhere from skin lesions, hives, flu-like symptoms, to anaphylactic shock and death. Symptoms often increase with repeated exposure. Latex is often added to clothing containing elastic, spandex, and sometimes other fibers. It is currently impossible to know the latex content of fabric garments, and accidental exposure can be harmful, even deadly to those with severe reactions. While the FDA requires labeling of allergens in packaged items, it does not require labeling for fabrics. Please help those people who of us who love to shop be able to do so without fear of illness or possible death!



